How To Decide Between Adobe Photoshop and Photoshop Elements Without Spending a Cent

Is it really that different? — What will I miss if I switch? — Will it be over my head?

I get questions like this often from people just like you who are:
• Thinking of switching from Photoshop Elements to Adobe Photoshop.
• Thinking of switching from Adobe Photoshop to Photoshop Elements.
• Thinking of trying one or the other for the first time.

Here’s the thing: Everyone uses their software differently. Not everyone uses the same features in their software. One person may place a high value on a feature that another person just doesn’t care about.

So, here’s the best advice I (or anyone else) could possibly give you: try it for yourself!

Yes. I know. It will take some effort on your part. But we are talking about spending $60 or more, so you should put in the time.

Here’s How To Try Before You Buy (Adobe Photoshop & Photoshop Elements)

Step One: Carve out some time. 
Choose a week that you don’t have a lot going on. You’re going to have seven days to try things out, so make it count! Mark it on your calendar–Adobe Week.

Step Two: Download a trial.
Wait until you’re ready to start your seven days of your Adobe Week. Download either the 7-Day Trial of Adobe Photoshop or the 7-Day Trial of Photoshop Elements. If you’re new to Adobe software, I’d recommend starting with Photoshop Elements.

Step Three: Get the right setup.
Do yourself a favor and reduce the chaos from the get-go. Follow our Quick Start Guide for either Adobe Photoshop or Photoshop Elements.

Step Four: Follow a class or several tutorials.
• Small chunks. Follow some free tutorials in our Marketplace. Look for ones that have different topics, like type, shapes, filters, masking, etc. It’s a free and easy way to try out the features of a new-to-you software app.
• Bigger chunk. Follow a free class (also found in our Marketplace). Page Builder 1 will take you through the creation of a simple scrapbook page from start to finish. The class gives you everything you need.
• Biggest chunk. Follow a class. You can purchase one, or if you already have classes in your classroom, then retake the class using different software.

If you have questions as you go along, you can (1) contact the instructor of your class or tutorial, (2) ask a question in our community, or (3) contact customer support. We’ll be happy to help you decide.

Step Five: Make your decision.
Change is hard. So you likely won’t be 100% comfortable with new software in seven days. But if you’re ready to make the switch, I’d recommend purchasing the online code to activate your trial from Adobe.

Frugal? Adobe Photoshop does not go on sale. Photoshop Elements, however, is discounted several times a year (up to 40%), so I recommend waiting for a sale.

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Author: Jen White | Contact Us
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