Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom
type: Article
description: Photoshop is a full-featured image editor designed for complex pixel-level manipulation and compositing, while Lightroom is a streamlined photo management and non-destructive editing tool optimized for photographers. Photoshop excels at advanced creative work; Lightroom excels at batch editing and organizing large photo libraries.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-07T09:29:53.352Z
date created: 2026-07-07T09:29:53.352Z
date modified: 2026-07-07T09:29:53.384Z
content reference time: 2026-07-07T09:29:53.384Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: Adobe Photoshop
about: Adobe Lightroom
abstract: Photoshop is a full-featured image editor designed for complex pixel-level manipulation and compositing, while Lightroom is a streamlined photo management and non-destructive editing tool optimized for photographers. Photoshop excels at advanced creative work; Lightroom excels at batch editing and organizing large photo libraries.
text: Primary Use Case. Learning Curve (Hours to Proficiency). File Size (Uncompressed Project, MB). RAW File Support. Batch Processing Efficiency. Layer & Masking Capabilities. Monthly Subscription Cost (USD)
conclusion text: Choose Photoshop if you need advanced compositing, graphic design, complex retouching with layers and masks, or pixel-level control for creative projects. Choose Lightroom if you prioritize managing large photo libraries, batch editing workflows, quick edits on hundreds of images, and a gentle learning curve—or use both together in the $22.49/month Photography Plan for complementary strengths.
additional property: AI Feature Set Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 12+ AI tools | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Non-Destructive Editing Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 100% (adjustment layers, smart objects, masks) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Professional Adoption Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 90% of design professionals | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Active User Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 25 million active users | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Maximum File Size Performance
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 4000+ MB optimized | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost (Yearly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $281.88/year | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $19.99/month | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Annual Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $239.88/year | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Available Editing Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 500+ advanced tools | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Typical Learning Time (Beginner to Productive)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 40+ hours | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Professional Industry Adoption Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 90%+ of design agencies, studios, freelancers | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: AI-Powered Generative Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 7 (Generative Fill, Super Resolution, Generative Expand, etc.) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Learning Time to Proficiency
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 100-200 hours | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Monthly Subscription Cost (Single App)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $22.49 | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Batch Photo Processing Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 50-100 (with scripts) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Average Project File Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 500-2000 (PSD) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Non-Destructive Editing Coverage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 70% (requires workarounds) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Maximum Canvas Dimensions
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 300,000 x 300,000 | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Pre-Made Templates
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: ~500 templates | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Estimated Learning Time to Proficiency
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 60+ hours | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Stock Photo Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Via third-party plugins/subscriptions | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: RAW Photo File Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes (300+ camera profiles) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost (if paying monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $239.88 | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Installation Required
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes, desktop app | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: File Size Handling (optimal performance)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Handles 2000+ MB efficiently | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: AI Generation Credits/Month
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 100 Firefly credits | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: 3D & Video Editing Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes, full 3D and video timeline | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $20.99/month | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $251.88/year | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: AI-Powered Tools Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 4+ (Generative Fill, Firefly, Content-Aware, Super Resolution) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: CMYK Color Mode Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes (full support) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Non-Destructive Editing
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Full (adjustment layers, smart objects) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Available Plugins/Extensions
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 75,000+ | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: GPU Acceleration Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Full (NVIDIA, AMD, Apple Metal) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Learning Curve (1=Easy, 10=Hard)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 8/10 | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost (12 months)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: $251.88 | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Available Plugins
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 10,000+ | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Startup Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 8 seconds | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Supported Camera RAW Formats
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 200+ | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Cloud Storage Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 100GB | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Platform Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Windows, macOS, iPad, Web | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Generative AI Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Firefly (Generative Fill, Super Resolution, removal tools) | Adobe Lightroom: Super Resolution only (limited AI features)
additional property: Template Library Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Minimal (third-party required) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Learning Time to Basic Proficiency
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: 50-100+ hours | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: RAW File Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes (extensive RAW editing) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Real-Time Collaboration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Limited (cloud sync only) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Maximum Export Resolution
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Unlimited (print-ready) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Desktop Application Required
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes (Windows/Mac only) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
additional property: Layer Support & Masking
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Adobe Photoshop: Extensive (unlimited layers, advanced masks) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/adobe-photoshop
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/adobe-photoshop
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/adobe-lightroom
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/adobe-lightroom
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/adobe-photoshop-vs-lightroom)
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/adobe-photoshop-vs-lightroom)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/photoshop-vs-gimp
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/photoshop-vs-pixlr
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/adobe-photoshop-vs-pixelmator-pro
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/adobe-photoshop-vs-canva
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/adobe-photoshop-vs-gimp
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/canva-vs-photoshop)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/canva-vs-photoshop))
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/photoshop-vs-figma)
teaches: How to choose between Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom
genre: Software

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

Adobe Photoshop
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: AP
language: en-US
description: Professional raster image editor for complex pixel manipulation, compositing, and graphic design.
subject of: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Lightroom
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: AL
language: en-US
description: Non-destructive photo editor and digital asset manager designed for photographers to organize, edit, and batch process images.
subject of: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom. Contains 83 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: AI Feature Set Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Artificial Intelligence
variable measured: Non-Destructive Editing Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Workflow
variable measured: Professional Adoption Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Industry Usage
variable measured: Active User Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Adoption
variable measured: Maximum File Size Performance
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Annual Cost (Yearly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Annual Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Available Editing Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Typical Learning Time (Beginner to Productive)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Usability
variable measured: Professional Industry Adoption Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Industry
variable measured: AI-Powered Generative Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: AI Features
variable measured: Learning Time to Proficiency
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Usability
variable measured: Monthly Subscription Cost (Single App)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Batch Photo Processing Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Workflow
variable measured: Average Project File Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Non-Destructive Editing Coverage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Maximum Canvas Dimensions
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Capabilities
variable measured: Pre-Made Templates
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Library
variable measured: Estimated Learning Time to Proficiency
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: Stock Photo Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Library
variable measured: RAW Photo File Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Capabilities
variable measured: Annual Cost (if paying monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Installation Required
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Convenience
variable measured: File Size Handling (optimal performance)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: AI Generation Credits/Month
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: AI Features
variable measured: 3D & Video Editing Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Advanced Features
variable measured: Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: AI-Powered Tools Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: CMYK Color Mode Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Non-Destructive Editing
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Core Features
variable measured: Available Plugins/Extensions
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Ecosystem
variable measured: GPU Acceleration Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Learning Curve (1=Easy, 10=Hard)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Usability
variable measured: Annual Cost (12 months)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Available Plugins
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Extensibility
variable measured: Startup Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Supported Camera RAW Formats
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Photography Features
variable measured: Cloud Storage Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Cloud Services
variable measured: Platform Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accessibility
variable measured: Generative AI Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: AI Capabilities
variable measured: Template Library Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Design
variable measured: Learning Time to Basic Proficiency
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Usability
variable measured: RAW File Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Photography
variable measured: Real-Time Collaboration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Maximum Export Resolution
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Output Quality
variable measured: Desktop Application Required
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accessibility
variable measured: Layer Support & Masking
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Advanced Features
variable measured: Native AI Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: GPU Acceleration Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Processing Speed (1GB file, typical operation)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Supported File Formats (export)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Compatibility
variable measured: Minimum RAM Recommended
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: System Requirements
variable measured: Monthly Subscription Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Available Templates
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Design
variable measured: Maximum Canvas Resolution
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Specs
variable measured: Free Cloud Storage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing & Access
variable measured: Stock Photos Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Library
variable measured: Professional Font Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Design Tools
variable measured: Advanced Editing Tools
variable measured: Industry Adoption Rate
variable measured: Design Templates Available
variable measured: Time to Proficiency
variable measured: AI-Powered Features
variable measured: Editing Precision Level
variable measured: Offline Mode Support
variable measured: Active Users (2024)
variable measured: Minimum RAM Requirement
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/adobe-photoshop-vs-lightroom)

Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom.
has defined term: Artificial Intelligence
has defined term: Workflow
has defined term: Industry Usage
has defined term: Adoption
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Features
has defined term: Usability
has defined term: Industry
has defined term: AI Features
has defined term: Capabilities
has defined term: Content Library
has defined term: User Experience
has defined term: Convenience
has defined term: Advanced Features
has defined term: Core Features
has defined term: Ecosystem
has defined term: Extensibility
has defined term: Photography Features
has defined term: Cloud Services
has defined term: Accessibility
has defined term: AI Capabilities
has defined term: Design
has defined term: Photography
has defined term: Output Quality
has defined term: Compatibility
has defined term: System Requirements
has defined term: Technical Specs
has defined term: Pricing & Access
has defined term: Design Tools
has defined term: Market
has defined term: Professional Features
has defined term: Functionality
has defined term: Market Adoption
has defined term: Collaboration
has defined term: Learning Difficulty
has defined term: Feature Capability
has defined term: Workflow Efficiency
has defined term: RAW Processing

Artificial Intelligence
type: DefinedTerm
term code: artificial-intelligence
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Workflow
type: DefinedTerm
term code: workflow
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Industry Usage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: industry-usage
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Adoption
type: DefinedTerm
term code: adoption
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Usability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: usability
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Industry
type: DefinedTerm
term code: industry
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

AI Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ai-features
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Capabilities
type: DefinedTerm
term code: capabilities
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Library
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-library
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-experience
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Convenience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: convenience
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Advanced Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: advanced-features
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Core Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: core-features
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Ecosystem
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ecosystem
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Extensibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: extensibility
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Photography Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: photography-features
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Cloud Services
type: DefinedTerm
term code: cloud-services
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Accessibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: accessibility
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

AI Capabilities
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ai-capabilities
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Design
type: DefinedTerm
term code: design
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Photography
type: DefinedTerm
term code: photography
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Output Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: output-quality
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Compatibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: compatibility
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

System Requirements
type: DefinedTerm
term code: system-requirements
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical Specs
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical-specs
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Pricing & Access
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing-&-access
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Design Tools
type: DefinedTerm
term code: design-tools
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Professional Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: professional-features
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Functionality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: functionality
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Adoption
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-adoption
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Collaboration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: collaboration
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Learning Difficulty
type: DefinedTerm
term code: learning-difficulty
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Feature Capability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: feature-capability
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Workflow Efficiency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: workflow-efficiency
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

RAW Processing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: raw-processing
in defined term set: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-07T09:29:53.384Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: adobe-photoshop-vs-lightroom)
main entity: Can I use Lightroom and Photoshop together?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes. Lightroom exports images directly to Photoshop for advanced editing via the 'Edit in Photoshop' button. Your edits sync back to Lightroom as a Smart Object. The $22.49/month Photography Plan includes both applications, making this a seamless integrated workflow used by 87% of professional photographers.
    language: en-US
main entity: Should I learn Photoshop or Lightroom first?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Start with Lightroom (20-40 hours to proficiency) if you're managing a photo library. It teaches you fundamental editing principles without overwhelming complexity. Learn Photoshop (80-120 hours) afterward when you need advanced compositing, retouching, or design capabilities. Many photographers use Lightroom 95% of the time and Photoshop for specialized projects.
    language: en-US
main entity: Can Lightroom replace Photoshop for professional photography?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: For 80-90% of professional photography workflows (wedding, portrait, commercial), Lightroom alone is sufficient and faster than Photoshop. However, Lightroom cannot perform complex retouching (blemish removal on skin), compositing (blending multiple images), or graphic design. Use both together for maximum flexibility.
    language: en-US
main entity: Why are my Lightroom catalog files so small compared to Photoshop projects?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Lightroom stores only editing instructions (non-destructive) as 2-10MB catalogs, keeping original RAW files separate and untouched. Photoshop creates .psd files that embed all layers, pixels, and data into a single file (500MB-2GB+), making them much larger and slower to save/load. Lightroom's approach is more efficient for photographers managing thousands of images.
    language: en-US
main entity: Does Photoshop have a RAW editor like Lightroom?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Photoshop processes RAW files through Camera Raw Filter (a built-in module similar to Lightroom's engine) but requires converting RAW to Smart Objects first, adding extra steps. Lightroom's native RAW engine with 150+ camera profiles is purpose-built for photographers and much faster for RAW workflows. Adobe Lightroom remains the superior choice for RAW processing.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom
type: HowTo
description: Photoshop is a full-featured image editor designed for complex pixel-level manipulation and compositing, while Lightroom is a streamlined photo management and non-destructive editing tool optimized for photographers. Photoshop excels at advanced creative work; Lightroom excels at batch editing and organizing large photo libraries.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Primary Use Case
step: Consider: Learning Curve (Hours to Proficiency)
step: Consider: File Size (Uncompressed Project, MB)
step: Consider: RAW File Support
step: Consider: Batch Processing Efficiency
step: Consider: Layer & Masking Capabilities
step: Consider: Monthly Subscription Cost (USD)
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose Photoshop if you need advanced compositing, graphic design, complex retouching with layers and masks, or pixel-level control for creative projects. Choose Lightroom if you prioritize managing large photo libraries, batch editing workflows, quick edits on hundreds of images, and a gentle learning curve—or use both together in the $22.49/month Photography Plan for complementary strengths.

Consider: Primary Use Case
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Primary Use Case: Adobe Photoshop has Complex editing, compositing, design, graphic design, while Adobe Lightroom has Photo management, batch editing, culling, non-destructive editing.

Consider: Learning Curve (Hours to Proficiency)
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Learning Curve (Hours to Proficiency): Adobe Photoshop has 80-120 hours, while Adobe Lightroom has 20-40 hours.

Consider: File Size (Uncompressed Project, MB)
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: File Size (Uncompressed Project, MB): Adobe Photoshop has 500-2000+ MB per project, while Adobe Lightroom has 2-10 MB per catalog.

Consider: RAW File Support
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: RAW File Support: Adobe Photoshop has Yes, with plugins/Smart Objects, while Adobe Lightroom has Native, comprehensive RAW engine.

Consider: Batch Processing Efficiency
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Batch Processing Efficiency: Adobe Photoshop has Manual or script-based (slower), while Adobe Lightroom has Sync settings to 100+ photos in seconds.

Consider: Layer & Masking Capabilities
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Layer & Masking Capabilities: Adobe Photoshop has Unlimited layers, advanced masks, blend modes, while Adobe Lightroom has Limited to adjustment layers, no pixel layers.

Consider: Monthly Subscription Cost (USD)
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: Monthly Subscription Cost (USD): Adobe Photoshop has $22.49 (Photography Plan includes both), while Adobe Lightroom has $11.49 (standalone) or $22.49 (Creative Cloud).

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom
review body: Photoshop is a full-featured image editor designed for complex pixel-level manipulation and compositing, while Lightroom is a streamlined photo management and non-destructive editing tool optimized for photographers. Photoshop excels at advanced creative work; Lightroom excels at batch editing and organizing large photo libraries.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom

Native AI Features
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 8+ tools (Generative Fill, Super Resolution, Remove, Generative Expand, etc.) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

GPU Acceleration Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Yes (CUDA, OpenCL, Metal) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Processing Speed (1GB file, typical operation)
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 2-4 seconds | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Supported File Formats (export)
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 40+ formats (PSD, JPEG, PNG, HEIF, WebP, AVIF, PDF, SVG) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Minimum RAM Recommended
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 8 GB | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Monthly Subscription Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: $22.49 (Photography Plan with Lightroom included) | Adobe Lightroom: $11.49 standalone or $22.49 with Creative Cloud
value reference: Adobe Lightroom

Available Templates
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: ~500 built-in templates | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Maximum Canvas Resolution
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 300,000 x 300,000 | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Free Cloud Storage
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 2GB (requires Creative Cloud) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Stock Photos Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Stock via Adobe Stock (requires separate subscription) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Professional Font Library
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Adobe Fonts library (240,000+ via subscription) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Advanced Editing Tools
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Advanced: layers, masks, curves, healing brush, content-aware fill | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Industry Adoption Rate
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Used by 90% of professional designers/photographers | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Design Templates Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Minimal (0-100) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Time to Proficiency
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 8-12 weeks | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

AI-Powered Features
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 8+ (Generative Fill, Super Resolution, AI Upscaler, Neural Filters) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Editing Precision Level
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Full 1px-level control across 1000+ tools | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Offline Mode Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Full (100% functionality) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Active Users (2024)
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Estimated 15+ million | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Minimum RAM Requirement
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 8 GB recommended | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Monthly Subscription Cost (Individual)
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: $9.99 (single app) / $55 (full Creative Cloud) | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Team Collaboration Users
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Unlimited with plugins; native support requires 3rd-party tools | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Supported File Formats
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 90+ formats including PSD, JPEG, TIFF, PNG, AI, EPS | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Average Application Load Time
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 12-15 seconds on standard hardware | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Offline Functionality
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Full offline editing with all tools available | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Real-Time Collaboration Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: No (native); requires external plugins or manual versioning | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Photo Retouching Capability
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 9.5/10 - industry-leading Content-Aware Fill, Generative Fill, Neural Filters | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

UI/UX Design Workflow Efficiency
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 6.5/10 - possible but requires workarounds for design systems | Adobe Lightroom: N/A

Hours to Proficiency
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 80-120 hours | Adobe Lightroom: 20-40 hours
value reference: Adobe Lightroom

Maximum Layers Per Project
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Unlimited (30,000+ tested) | Adobe Lightroom: Unlimited adjustment layers only (no pixel layers)
value reference: Adobe Photoshop

Typical Project File Size
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 500-2000+ MB per complex project | Adobe Lightroom: 2-10 MB per catalog (100,000+ photos)
value reference: Adobe Lightroom

Batch Editing Speed (100 photos)
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 120-180 minutes (manual or scripting) | Adobe Lightroom: 2-5 minutes (Sync Settings feature)
value reference: Adobe Lightroom

Native RAW File Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: Via Smart Objects/plugins (requires extra steps) | Adobe Lightroom: Native RAW engine with 150+ camera profiles

Selection & Masking Tools
type: PropertyValue
value: Adobe Photoshop: 20+ (Magic Wand, Select Subject, Refine Edge, Content-Aware) | Adobe Lightroom: 4-6 (basic select, brush, range mask)
value reference: Adobe Photoshop

SpeakableSpecification
css selector: #short-answer
css selector: #verdict
css selector: #key-differences
css selector: #faq
xpath: //*[@id='short-answer']
xpath: //*[@id='verdict']

Adobe Photoshop — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Adobe Lightroom — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Lightroom
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/adobe-photoshop-vs-lightroom)
object: Adobe Photoshop
object: Adobe Lightroom

Advanced Editing Tools
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Industry Adoption Rate
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market

Design Templates Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Time to Proficiency
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Usability

AI-Powered Features
type: PropertyValue
value reference: AI Capabilities

Editing Precision Level
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Professional Features

Offline Mode Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Functionality

Active Users (2024)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Adoption

Minimum RAM Requirement
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Monthly Subscription Cost (Individual)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Team Collaboration Users
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Collaboration

Supported File Formats
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Average Application Load Time
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Offline Functionality
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Real-Time Collaboration Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Collaboration

Photo Retouching Capability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

UI/UX Design Workflow Efficiency
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Hours to Proficiency
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Learning Difficulty

Maximum Layers Per Project
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Feature Capability

Typical Project File Size
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Batch Editing Speed (100 photos)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Workflow Efficiency

Native RAW File Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: RAW Processing

Selection & Masking Tools
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Feature Capability