One of the biggest advantages Windows has over Linux is Microsoft Paint (I’m only half kidding here). This stalwart creativity tool is still beloved by many. So, let’s even the playing field with some simple Linux drawing apps that provide a similar experience.
Why Do People Still Love Microsoft Paint So Much?
One of the biggest draws for Windows way back in the 90s was the selection of apps (or programs, as it was fashionable to call them at the time) that it shipped with. This included Notepad, WordPad (rest in peace), a calculator, and later, even a web browser (thevenerableInternet Explorer). Arguably the most popular of these productivity tools was Paint.
Whether it’s nostalgia or just its pure simplicity, there’s nothing quite like Microsoft Paint for some low-res creativity. For decades it’s been the go-to for kids, bored office workers, and internet trolls for throwing together janky-looking pixelated masterpieces.
That’s why it was baffling when Microsoftindicated that it would be killed off. Instead (perhaps due to public backlash), they’ve madesome updates toit. However, most purists will eschew this updated version for the original version that shipped unchanged in Windows operating systems for the better part of two decades.
So, to keep with the vibe of the original Paint, this list focuses onsimpledrawing tools - noPhotoShop alternatives like Gimpallowed!
Tux Paint
Tux Paintlooks clunky, but it’s easy to use and has a lot of charm. It’s got big buttons with identifiable icons, so it’s great for kids. TuxPaint is available in most default Linux software repositories. You can install it in a few seconds on Ubuntu by runningsudo apt install tuxpaint.
Pinta
ThePinta projectis a lightweight drawing and image editing tool for Linux with a few extra features (like layers and transparency) that bring it closer to the popularPaint.netWindows app. It’s still super simple to use, and is a great Paint alternative for Linux. You can install it in Ubuntu by runningsudo apt install pinta.
KolourPaint
KolourPaintis a simple drawing app designed for the KDE desktop environment (but you can still run it in other desktop environments). While it doesn’t offer anything beyond the other Paint clones on this page, if you’re a KDE fan, it’s worth a look. Install it on Ubuntu by runningsudo apt install kolourpaint.
JS Paint
Run a full clone of the most popular version of Microsoft Paint right in your web browser usingJS Paint. It works on any device with a modern browser, and there’s no need for installation. you may download and keep your finished masterpieces when you’re done.
Microsoft Paint (Wine)
If you’re up for a bit of tinkering, the best alternative to Microsoft Paint for Linux is Microsoft Paint for Windows. TheWine projectlets yourrun Windows apps on Linux, so why notgive it a shot and run Paint?
Feeling Creative?
If you’re looking for more advanced image editing and drawing tools, check out ourlist of the best Adobe alternatives for creatives, and ourfree alternatives to Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud Subscriptions.
