Luminar Neo vs Pixelmator Pro: Which Photo Editor to Choose?

So many photo editors are available today that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To make things easier, we’ve put together this guide to help you decide. Let’s explore which photo editor suits your needs better: Luminar Neo or Pixelmator Pro!

Discover Luminar Neo

Evaluating Key Characteristics

Ease of Use

Both editors are user-friendly. However, thanks to its intuitive interface and AI tools that simplify complex edits, we find Luminar Neo to be more accessible. Pixelmator, on the other hand, leans toward a more manual editing experience, which can take a bit longer to master.

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Editing Capabilities

As mentioned earlier, Luminar Neo excels with its advanced AI features, such as Sky Replacement, Relight AI, and object removal. Pixelmator, with its tools for detailed manual customization, focuses less on AI, and more on layer-based editing and graphic design.

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Efficient Workflow

Luminar Neo streamlines workflows with its AI tools, wide range of presets, and batch editing capabilities. These features make it a great choice for photographers managing large photo collections. Pixelmator, while efficient for single edits, lacks the advanced batch processing that Luminar Neo offers.

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Pixelmator vs Luminar:
Breaking it Down to the Basics

AspectPixelmator ProLuminar Neo

Ease of Use

User-friendly but requires more manual adjustments, making it less beginner-friendly

Highly intuitive with AI-driven tools and presets, perfect for quick and professional results

Editing Capabilities

Robust layer-based editing, but lacks the automation of AI tools

Packed with advanced AI features like Sky Replacement, Relight AI, and object removal for versatile edits

Workflow Efficiency

Efficient for single edits but lacks batch processing, slowing down larger projects

Streamlines workflows with AI automation, presets, and batch editing, saving time on high-volume tasks

AI Features

Limited AI tools compared to Luminar Neo

Comprehensive AI-powered tools for creative, fast, and professional edits

Pricing

One-time purchase with a lower upfront cost, but fewer advanced features

Flexible pricing with one-time purchase or subscription options for long-term value

Best For

Suitable for users focused on graphic design and detailed manual edits

Ideal for photographers who prioritize speed, creativity, and AI-powered automation

Pixelmator Pro

Luminar Neo

Ease of Use

User-friendly but requires more manual adjustments, making it less beginner-friendly

Highly intuitive with AI-driven tools and presets, perfect for quick and professional results

Editing Capabilities

Robust layer-based editing, but lacks the automation of AI tools

Packed with advanced AI features like Sky Replacement, Relight AI, and object removal for versatile edits

Workflow Efficiency

Efficient for single edits but lacks batch processing, slowing down larger projects

Streamlines workflows with AI automation, presets, and batch editing, saving time on high-volume tasks

AI Features

Limited AI tools compared to Luminar Neo

Comprehensive AI-powered tools for creative, fast, and professional edits

Pricing

One-time purchase with a lower upfront cost, but fewer advanced features

Flexible pricing with one-time purchase or subscription options for long-term value

Best For

Suitable for users focused on graphic design and detailed manual edits

Ideal for photographers who prioritize speed, creativity, and AI-powered automation

An application & plugin for macOS & Windows

based on 4000+ reviews on TrustPilot about Skylum Software

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Award-winning photo software
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More than 1,000,000 users worldwide
Vast collection of creative assets for incredible results
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Keep your workflow, expand your possibilities

Want to get all the benefits of Luminar Neo but have an established Lightroom workflow? Great news! You can use all the power of Luminar Neo within a plugin for Lightroom without changing up your usual post-production process.

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An application & plugin
For macOS & Windows

  • High-performance AI editor
  • 24/7 technical support

  • 30-day money back guarantee

  • Join community of Luminar Insiders

FAQ About Luminar vs Pixelmator

Which software is better for beginners: Luminar Neo vs Pixelmator Pro?

Both are beginner-friendly, but Luminar Neo’s intuitive AI-powered tools and presets make it particularly easy to use for quick, professional-looking edits. Pixelmator Pro offers a simpler interface but requires more manual adjustments, which might appeal to users who prefer hands-on control.

Can I integrate Luminar and Pixelmator in my workflow, and what are the benefits of doing so?

Yes! You can leverage Luminar Neo’s advanced AI tools and presets for creative edits while utilizing Pixelmator’s layer-based design capabilities for detailed adjustments and graphic design tasks.

How do the pricing plans for Luminar vs Pixelmator Pro compare?

Luminar Neo offers flexible options, including a one-time purchase or a subscription. Pixelmator Pro is available as a one-time purchase.

Pixelmator Pro vs Luminar Neo: Which is faster?

Luminar Neo generally processes edits faster, especially when using AI-powered tools or batch editing. Pixelmator Pro can handle simple tasks quickly but may take more time for detailed edits due to its manual nature.

Is Skylum Luminar Neo better than Pixelmator Pro?

As always, the correct answer depends on your needs. Luminar Neo excels in AI automation, presets, and creative tools, which is ideal for photographers who seek speed and efficiency. Pixelmator Pro, in turn, is better suited for detailed manual edits, graphic design, and projects requiring layer-based workflows.
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