Paint: Microsoft’s free image editing application

Enlarged image for MS Paint
MS Paint 0/4

Paint is a powerful yet user-friendly tool that has garnered favor among Windows users. So, let's delve into the features and functionalities that make Paint a preferred choice for digital artists and casual users.

User-friendly interface

One of the standout features of Paint is its intuitive interface. Navigating through the application is a breeze, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned artists. The straightforward layout ensures that users can quickly locate the necessary tools without feeling overwhelmed.

Brushes and tools galore

Paint boasts an impressive array of brushes and tools, providing users with various options to bring their creative visions to life. Whether you're an experienced digital artist or a novice looking to experiment, the diverse brushes allow creativity without limitations.

Image and screenshot cropping

The ability to crop images and screenshots seamlessly adds a practical dimension to Paint's capabilities. Users can easily tailor their visuals to suit specific dimensions or eliminate unwanted elements, enhancing the overall precision of their projects.

Pixel-perfect precision with rulers and gridlines

For those who value precision in their artwork, Paint offers the advantage of pixel-perfect editing. Rulers and gridlines contribute to a meticulous editing experience, allowing users to accurately align elements.

File format flexibility

Once your masterpiece is ready for the world, Paint makes saving your files in almost any format hassle-free. This flexibility ensures your creations can be shared across various platforms without compatibility issues.

Creating masterpieces on Windows

Paint caters to both the casual user and the digital artist, providing a platform where creativity knows no bounds. The built-in tools empower users to express themselves effortlessly, making it a go-to application for unleashing artistic potential on the Windows platform.

Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: A tale of two versions

Windows 10

For years, Paint on Windows 10 was a reliable tool, providing a satisfying user experience. The interface was simple, and the features were well-organized, allowing users to navigate effortlessly. The overall functionality of the application was commendable, making it a go-to choice for image editing.

Windows 11

However, the transition to Windows 11 brought about notable changes that left many users dissatisfied. Several features that were integral to the user experience were either removed or altered, making the application less user-friendly.

  • Loss of "colors" options: The removal of the "Colors" options within the "Image Properties" dialog box was a significant setback. This feature, valued by users, allowed for precise adjustments and customization.
  • Transparency challenges: The update introduced difficulties with transparency settings, particularly concerning saving images with a white background. This limitation hindered users from achieving the desired output and impacted the versatility of the application.
  • Quality issues with resizing: The resizing, flipping, or rotating of images resulted in a decline in quality. The lines became blurred along the edges, compromising the effectiveness of the fill tool. This, in turn, dampened the creative spirit of users who relied on the application for their artistic endeavors.

Our take

In assessing Paint's capabilities, it's evident that the application strikes a harmonious balance between power and simplicity. While it may not boast the extensive features of some high-end editing software, Paint's strength lies in its accessibility and user-friendly design. For those seeking a reliable tool for everyday image editing or digital art creation, Paint is a commendable choice.

Should you download it?

The decision to download Paint hinges on your specific needs and expectations. Suppose you prioritize a straightforward, easy-to-navigate interface and a toolset that covers the essentials without overwhelming complexity. In that case, Paint is a solid choice. However, you require advanced features and intricate functionalities for professional-grade editing.

  • Pros

    • User-friendly interface
    • Versatile editing tools
    • Precision with cropping
    • Pixel-perfect editing
    • Multiple format support
  • Cons

    • Loss of "colors" options (Windows 11)
    • Transparency challenges (Windows 11)
    • Quality issues with resizing (Windows 11)
    • Uncertainty about Windows 10 availability
    • Impact on checkerboard background and flattened images (Windows 11)

Specifications

Platform
Windows
Language
  • Arabic
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License

Free

Latest update
Downloads in last month
670
Developer
Microsoft Corporation

Program available in other languages



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