SmallBizGenius Analysis
ON1 photo editing software receives mixed reviews, with users praising its features and customer support, but also noting performance issues and occasional bugs. While many find it a suitable alternative to Adobe products, others experience frustration with its speed and complexity.
Category Breakdown
Scores based on analysis of 284 recent reviews
Customer Support
8.5/10Many reviewers praise ON1's customer support, describing it as responsive and helpful. Users appreciate the assistance they receive both before and after purchase, especially when troubleshooting technical issues.
20 reviews mention thisFeatures and Functionality
7.8/10Reviewers generally appreciate the wide range of features offered by ON1, often comparing it favorably to Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. They highlight specific tools like noise reduction, masking, and AI-powered enhancements, though some find certain features, like the healing brush, to be lacking.
35 reviews mention thisPerformance and Stability
4.5/10A significant number of reviewers report performance issues with ON1, including slow loading times, crashes, and high memory usage. These problems are particularly pronounced on older or less powerful computers, making the software frustrating to use for some.
25 reviews mention thisEase of Use and Learning Curve
6.5/10While some users find ON1 relatively easy to learn, especially with the help of tutorials, others struggle with its complex interface and numerous options. Some long-time users also find that new versions require them to relearn certain features.
15 reviews mention thisPricing and Value
7.0/10The perpetual license model is a major draw for many reviewers, who see it as a more affordable alternative to subscription-based software. However, some long-time users express frustration with upgrade pricing and the availability of better discounts for new customers.
10 reviews mention thisPros & Cons
What Customers Love
"This seems to be a fully fledged Photo editing software."
"The Customer Support before my purchase and after my installation has been great."
"My choice in photo editing software is a product I only want to pay for once and not through subscription."
"Easy to download and plenty of how to content on the website to get you started including ebooks."
"I am satisfied this application because I can use this noise reduction tool not only for Raw files but also Jpeg files(takes less time than Photoshop)."
Common Complaints
"This software made me hate photography. It is insanely slow, every picture takes approximately 5-10 seconds to load."
"It is amazing software - the only problem so far is the interface with my MS Surface Pro laptop with ARM processor. It has crashed twice on me, but opens up with no problem after re-start"
"ON1 has great features. However, I have one issue - I find the multiple ON1 menus somewhat confusing, much more so than in Lightroom which I find a lot easier to navigate."
"I have used ON1 for 13 years, but newcomers may get a better price than I do."
"The much heralded ON1 2026 upgrade is disappointing. The flaws in the 2025 version have not been addressed, the healing brush is awful, it just leaves a smear across the picture"
Common Questions About On1
Answers derived from customer review patterns
Is ON1 legit and trustworthy?
ON1 is a legitimate software company offering photo editing solutions. While the majority of users express satisfaction with its features and customer support, a significant minority report performance issues and bugs. The company has been in business for many years and provides a perpetual license option, which is a positive sign of its commitment. However, potential users should be aware of the reported performance problems and ensure their systems meet the minimum requirements before purchasing.
Based on 45 reviewsDoes ON1 have good customer service?
Many reviewers praise ON1's customer service, describing it as responsive and helpful. Users appreciate the assistance they receive when troubleshooting technical issues or have questions about the software. The support team is often commended for its willingness to work with customers to resolve problems. However, a few reviewers express a preference for phone support over email communication.
Based on 20 reviewsIs ON1 worth it for small business?
Whether ON1 is worth it for a small business depends on its specific needs and priorities. If the business requires a comprehensive photo editing solution and wants to avoid subscription fees, ON1's perpetual license may be attractive. However, the reported performance issues and potential learning curve should be considered. Businesses with older or less powerful computers may experience frustration with the software's speed and stability. It's recommended to try the software before purchasing to ensure it meets the business's requirements.
Based on 30 reviewsWhat are the main complaints about ON1?
The main complaints about ON1 revolve around its performance and stability. Many users report slow loading times, crashes, and high memory usage, particularly on older or less powerful computers. Some users also find the interface complex and difficult to navigate. Additionally, a few reviewers express frustration with upgrade pricing and the availability of better discounts for new customers.
Based on 50 reviewsIs ON1 a good alternative to Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom?
ON1 is often considered a viable alternative to Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, particularly for users seeking a one-time purchase option. Many reviewers specifically mention switching from Adobe due to the subscription model and appreciate ON1's perpetual license and comprehensive feature set. However, Adobe products are generally considered more stable and performant, especially on demanding tasks. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the user's individual needs, budget, and technical capabilities.
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