Leaving Adobe Creative Cloud? Here's everything you need
Compare 2 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Adobe Creative Cloud is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
PhotopeaRecommended Photopea is a web-based graphic editor that supports various file formats, including PSD, XCF, and Sketch. It offers tools for photo editing, vector graphics, and text manipulation. Users can work directly in the browser without the need for software installation, making it accessible across devices. | 🇨🇿Czech Republic | Free plan available | Medium | Varies | |
Krita Krita is a free, open-source digital painting software designed for artists. It offers a variety of brushes, tools, and features for creating illustrations, concept art, and animations. Users can work with layers, masks, and advanced color management. Compatible with multiple operating systems, Krita supports various file formats for easy sharing and collaboration. | 🇳🇱Netherlands | Free | Medium | Varies |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
Krita is a free, open-source digital painting software designed for artists. It offers a variety of brushes, tools, and features for creating illustrations, concept art, and animations. Users can work with layers, masks, and advanced color management. Compatible with multiple operating systems, Krita supports various file formats for easy sharing and collaboration.
Certifications:
Best Free Option
Photopea is a web-based graphic editor that supports various file formats, including PSD, XCF, and Sketch. It offers tools for photo editing, vector graphics, and text manipulation. Users can work directly in the browser without the need for software installation, making it accessible across devices.
- Photopea is browser-based, requiring no installation on devices.
- Free tier available, offering basic features without subscription fees.
- Full PSD compatibility allows easy editing of Adobe files.
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
Photopea is a web-based graphic editor that supports various file formats, including PSD, XCF, and Sketch. It offers tools for photo editing, vector graphics, and text manipulation. Users can work directly in the browser without the need for software installation, making it accessible across devices.
Advantages
- Photopea is browser-based, requiring no installation on devices.
- Free tier available, offering basic features without subscription fees.
- Full PSD compatibility allows easy editing of Adobe files.
- GDPR compliance ensures user data protection within the EU.
Trade-offs
- Limited features compared to Adobe's 20+ creative apps.
- Learning curve for users familiar with Adobe's interface.
- No mobile apps, restricting editing on smartphones or tablets.
Krita is a free, open-source digital painting software designed for artists. It offers a variety of brushes, tools, and features for creating illustrations, concept art, and animations. Users can work with layers, masks, and advanced color management. Compatible with multiple operating systems, Krita supports various file formats for easy sharing and collaboration.
Advantages
- Krita is open source, allowing for free access and modifications.
- No subscription fees; Krita is completely free to use.
- Krita's brush engine offers over 100 customizable brush presets.
- GDPR compliance ensures data protection for EU users.
Trade-offs
- Adobe's collaboration features are more advanced for team projects.
- Krita lacks some advanced photo editing tools found in Photoshop.
- Migration from Adobe may require a learning curve for new tools.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Adobe Creative Cloud before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Adobe Creative Cloud account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Adobe Creative Cloud is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Adobe Creative Cloud?
There are 2 European alternatives to Adobe Creative Cloud. Photopea, Krita are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Adobe Creative Cloud?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Adobe Creative Cloud?
Yes, most services including Adobe Creative Cloud allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Adobe Creative Cloud account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Adobe Creative Cloud to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Adobe Creative Cloud first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Adobe Creative Cloud subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Adobe Creative Cloud to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.