What it does
Paint.NET is a Windows raster editor with layers, pressure-sensitive drawing, image effects and colour-profile support. Native PDN files keep a layered composition editable. The Classic download is free; the paid Microsoft Store edition has the same drawing functions and adds fully automatic updates.
Keep the layered source and the delivery image
Open a picture or start a canvas with chosen pixel dimensions and print resolution. Build the illustration on layers, using a compatible Windows Ink pen when pressure control matters. Save the editable composition as PDN, then use Save As for a separate delivery file.
The Save Configuration preview shows both appearance and file size. JPEG has a quality control, while GIF offers transparency and dithering options. Auto-detect bit depth chooses the smallest supported setting that preserves the image’s information.
Colour management handles embedded profiles, and extra file types can be added through plug-ins. HEIC requires Microsoft’s HEVC Video Extensions.
Choosing the Windows release
Classic is free for personal, commercial, school and government work. The Store purchase supports the project and updates in the background. Paint.NET is proprietary software: its licence does not permit modifying the application itself.
Strengths
- PDN retains layers for subsequent changes
- Save previews show the result alongside its file size
- Embedded colour profiles are supported
Watch out for
- Runs on Windows only
- HEIC requires an additional Microsoft extension
- Software modification is prohibited by its licence
Best for
- Layered Windows illustrations and labels
- Photo edits mixed with pressure-sensitive drawing
Sources
- Paint.NET layers, pen support, formats and colour management (Oct 27, 2026)
- Paint.NET download choices and Windows requirements (Oct 27, 2026)
- Paint.NET Classic and Store licences (Oct 27, 2026)
- Paint.NET new images, saving and format configuration (Oct 27, 2026)