Corel KnockOut, a powerful image masking software, has been widely used by graphic designers and photographers to remove backgrounds from images and create stunning compositions. However, there are several other alternatives and competitors available in the market that offer similar functionalities and features. In this article, we will explore the ten best Corel KnockOut alternatives and competitors available in 2024.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is undoubtedly one of the most popular and versatile image editing software available. With its advanced selection tools and layer masking capabilities, Photoshop offers a comprehensive solution for image masking and background removal. It provides users with precise control over the selection process, allowing them to create seamless compositions. Photoshop also offers a wide range of additional features, making it an excellent choice for professionals. The pricing for Adobe Photoshop starts at $20.99/month.

Advantages: Comprehensive tool with advanced selection tools and layer masking capabilities.

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Use Cases: Adobe Photoshop is suitable for individuals and businesses looking for a professional-grade image editing software.

2. GIMP

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free and open-source image editing software that offers a robust set of tools for image masking and background removal. While it may not have all the advanced features of Photoshop, GIMP provides users with essential selection tools, layer masks, and alpha channel support. With its user-friendly interface and extensive community support, GIMP is an excellent option for those on a tight budget.

Advantages: Free and open-source software with essential image masking and background removal features.

Use Cases: GIMP is suitable for individuals and small businesses looking for a cost-effective image editing solution.

3. Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a feature-rich image editing software that offers advanced selection tools and layer masking capabilities. It provides users with precise control over the masking process, allowing them to create complex compositions seamlessly. Affinity Photo also offers a wide range of editing features and supports non-destructive editing, making it an excellent choice for professionals. The pricing for Affinity Photo starts at $49.99 as a one-time purchase.

Advantages: Feature-rich software with advanced selection tools and layer masking capabilities.

Use Cases: Affinity Photo is suitable for individuals and businesses looking for a professional-grade image editing software without a subscription fee.

4. Pixlr

Pixlr is a web-based image editing platform that offers a range of tools for image masking and background removal. While it may not have all the advanced features of Photoshop, Pixlr provides users with essential selection tools and layer masks. It also offers a user-friendly interface and requires no installation, making it accessible from any device with an internet connection. Pixlr offers both free and paid plans, with the pricing for the paid plans starting at $4.90/month.

Advantages: Web-based platform with essential image masking and background removal features.

Use Cases: Pixlr is suitable for individuals and small businesses looking for a simple and accessible image editing solution.

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5. PaintShop Pro

PaintShop Pro is a comprehensive image editing software that offers a range of features for image masking and background removal. It provides users with intuitive selection tools, layer masks, and advanced editing capabilities. PaintShop Pro also offers a user-friendly interface and supports non-destructive editing, making it a suitable choice for both beginners and professionals. The pricing for PaintShop Pro starts at $79.99 as a one-time purchase.

Advantages: Comprehensive software with intuitive selection tools and layer masking capabilities.

Use Cases: PaintShop Pro is suitable for individuals and businesses looking for a versatile image editing software.

6. Canva

Canva is a popular web-based graphic design platform that offers a range of tools for image editing and composition. While it may not have advanced image masking capabilities, Canva provides users with essential selection tools and layer masks, allowing them to create simple compositions. Canva also offers a vast library of templates, graphics, and fonts, making it an excellent choice for creating social media graphics and marketing materials. Canva offers both free and paid plans, with the pricing for the paid plans starting at $12.95/month.

Advantages: Web-based platform with essential image editing and composition features.

Use Cases: Canva is suitable for individuals and small businesses looking for an easy-to-use graphic design tool.

7. Luminar AI

Luminar AI is an innovative image editing software that uses artificial intelligence to simplify complex editing tasks, including image masking and background removal. With its AI-powered selection tools and masking capabilities, Luminar AI allows users to achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort. It also offers a range of additional editing features, making it a comprehensive solution for photographers and graphic designers. The pricing for Luminar AI starts at $79 as a one-time purchase.

Advantages: Innovative software with AI-powered selection tools and masking capabilities.

Use Cases: Luminar AI is suitable for individuals and professionals looking for a time-saving image editing solution.

8. PhotoScape X

PhotoScape X is a user-friendly image editing software that offers basic selection tools and layer masking capabilities. While it may not have all the advanced features of professional-grade software, PhotoScape X provides users with essential tools for image masking and background removal. It also offers a range of additional editing features, including filters, effects, and batch editing, making it a versatile option for casual users. PhotoScape X offers both free and paid plans, with the pricing for the paid plans starting at $39.99 as a one-time purchase.

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Advantages: User-friendly software with essential image masking and editing features.

Use Cases: PhotoScape X is suitable for individuals looking for a simple and affordable image editing solution.

9. InPixio

InPixio is an image editing software that offers basic selection tools and layer masking capabilities. It provides users with essential features for image masking and background removal, allowing them to create clean compositions. InPixio also offers additional editing features, such as filters, effects, and retouching tools, making it a versatile option for casual users. The pricing for InPixio starts at $49.99 as a one-time purchase.

Advantages: Software with essential image masking and editing features.

Use Cases: InPixio is suitable for individuals looking for a budget-friendly image editing solution.

10. Photopea

Photopea is a free web-based image editing software that offers a range of tools for image masking and background removal. While it may not have all the advanced features of professional-grade software, Photopea provides users with essential selection tools and layer masks. It supports a wide range of file formats and offers a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to users of all levels.

Advantages: Free web-based platform with essential image masking and background removal features.

Use Cases: Photopea is suitable for individuals and small businesses looking for a cost-effective image editing solution.

In conclusion, while Corel KnockOut is a popular choice for image masking and background removal, there are several other alternatives and competitors available in the market in 2024. Each software offers unique features and focuses on different aspects of image editing and composition. Whether you are a professional designer or a casual user, there is an image editing software available to meet your needs. Consider the specific features, pricing, and ease of use when selecting the best alternative to Corel KnockOut for your image editing projects.