Quick answer: Pixlr is a family of browser-based photo editors with layers, masks and a growing set of AI tools, plus mobile apps for iPhone and Android. The old Flash-based Pixlr Editor we reviewed in 2020 no longer exists; today’s Pixlr Editor runs in a modern browser without any plug-in. You can use Pixlr for free, and paid plans (Plus, Premium and Ultra) remove ads and add AI credits. As of October 2026, Pixlr’s pricing page listed Plus from $1.99 a month billed yearly.
What Pixlr is
Pixlr is an online photo editing service run by Pixlr Pte Ltd, according to its website. Unlike many simple browser editors that only offer filters, Pixlr’s full editor gives you a layered, Photoshop-style workspace: tools on the left, options along the top and layers on the right, with panels you can rearrange.
In October 2026, Pixlr’s website lists two main editors plus a set of AI tools:
- Pixlr Editor: the full photo editor for more detailed work, aimed at photographers and designers.
- Pixlr Express: a simpler, AI-assisted editor for quick enhancements.
- AI tools: an AI image generator, AI video and audio generators, a text-guided AI image editor, background remover, object remover, image upscaler, image extender, generative fill, noise remover, skin enhancer, colorize, face swap, a collage maker and more.
Pixlr works in web browsers and on iOS and Android, and its website also mentions Pixlr Desktop.
What happened to the Flash version?
An earlier version of this article said Pixlr Editor was built in Flash and needed the Flash plug-in. That was true of the original Pixlr Editor, but Adobe ended support for Flash Player after 31 December 2020, and modern browsers no longer run Flash. The Flash-based editor has gone. The current Pixlr Editor runs directly in browsers such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari, with no plug-in. Internet Explorer, which the old article listed, has itself been retired by Microsoft.
The “Pixlr Express” name, which our original review recommended for a simpler experience, is used again today for Pixlr’s quick, AI-assisted editor.
Pixlr pricing
Pixlr can be used for free. Its paid plans, as listed on Pixlr’s pricing page in October 2026 (US dollar prices shown):
| Plan | Billed monthly | Billed yearly (per month) | Monthly AI credits | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plus | $2.49 | $1.99 | 80 | No ads, unlimited saves |
| Premium | $9.99 | $7.99 | 1,000 | All AI image, video and audio models, more templates and fonts, private mode for AI generations |
| Ultra | From $24.99 | From $19.99 | Up to 10,000 | Priority AI queue, more concurrent generations, extended high-resolution exports |
Because the Plus plan is sold as “ad-free” with “unlimited saves”, you can expect the free tier to show ads and limit saves. Pixlr also sells AI credit packs that do not expire. Prices may be shown in your local currency, so check Pixlr’s pricing page before you subscribe.
Our 2020 review said Pixlr was “free with no pricing fees” and could be used commercially without hidden costs. Pixlr now has paid tiers, and you should read Pixlr’s current terms of service before using it for commercial work.
Features
Layers and masks
The full Pixlr Editor supports layers and masks for non-destructive, layered editing, which is what set it apart from filter-only web apps when we first reviewed it. It is not as powerful as Adobe Photoshop, but people who know Photoshop usually find the layout familiar.
Adjustments and quick fixes
You can tune levels, curves, exposure and colour by hand, or use one-click and AI tools to enhance a photo quickly. Our original review also singled out the history panel, which lets you step back through your edits.
Opening images
You can open an image from your computer or phone, or start a new project from a blank canvas or template. The original review mentioned importing from a URL or directly from Facebook; check the current editor for which import options are available.
Tools at a glance
The tool set our original review listed still describes the core of a layered editor like Pixlr: layers, selection tools such as the magic wand and lasso, brushes and eraser, filters and effects, adjustments, transform, text and fonts, colour replacement, retouching and photo collages. Pixlr’s website now adds the AI tools listed above.
Privacy and file storage
The original article said Pixlr does not store copies of your photos. We could not confirm that from Pixlr’s current website, which instead points to its privacy policy and mentions a “private mode” for AI generations on paid plans. If privacy matters for your images, read Pixlr’s privacy policy before uploading.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Runs in a browser with no install or plug-in | Free tier has ads and save limits |
| Layers and masks in the full editor | Less powerful than desktop editors such as Photoshop or GIMP |
| Low-cost entry plan | Many AI features depend on paid credits |
| Wide range of AI tools in one place | Needs an internet connection |
Pixlr vs other free editors
If you want a free editor that runs offline and has no ads, the open-source GIMP is the main alternative, though it is harder to learn. For template-led design rather than photo editing, compare Fotor and Canva. Our list of photo editing software covers more options.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pixlr free?
Yes, you can use Pixlr for free with ads and limits. The paid Plus plan removes ads and gives unlimited saves, and higher plans add AI credits.
Does Pixlr still need Flash?
No. The Flash-based Pixlr Editor is gone. The current Pixlr editors run in modern browsers without any plug-in.
What is the difference between Pixlr Editor and Pixlr Express?
Pixlr Editor is the full editor with layers and detailed tools. Pixlr Express is the simpler, AI-assisted editor for quick enhancements.
Is there a Pixlr app for phones?
Yes. Pixlr says it works on iOS and Android as well as in web browsers.
Checked in October 2026 against Pixlr’s website and pricing page and Adobe’s Flash Player end-of-life notice. We have not tested Pixlr ourselves; prices and features change often, so confirm on Pixlr’s website before you subscribe.
