Compositor is a free, open-source image editor for Mac built around Photoshop-style compositing and post-processing. It may suit layer-based edits, retouching, and image adjustments, but it is not a universal Photoshop replacement: the developer lists macOS 26 or later on Apple silicon as a requirement, and the app does not support CMYK PSD/PSB files. Check compatibility and file needs before downloading.
What Compositor does
The developer describes Compositor as an editor for compositing and post-processing. Its feature list includes layers and folders, layer and clipping masks, blend modes, selection tools, adjustment layers, filters, background removal, blur, lens correction, grain and noise, liquify and smear, spot healing, clone stamp, and brushes. The project repository also lists non-destructive transforms, content-aware fill, editable text and shapes, Camera Raw adjustments, and canvas layout tools. These are developer-described capabilities, not independently verified feature or performance tests. Compositor product page; project repository.
The project says its goal is a full-featured image editor that is completely free and open source. The product page describes it as “Free, open source, and always yours.” The repository identifies the license as MIT and says users can download the Xcode project and modify features. Developer product page; project repository.
Will it work for your editing?
Likely fit: layer-based compositing and post-processing
The listed tools cover common layered tasks such as combining images, masking parts of a layer, adjusting color and tone, retouching, and applying effects. That makes Compositor worth considering if those are the main jobs you need to do. The available sources do not establish Photoshop feature parity or prove that it replaces every Photoshop workflow.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Check PSD and PSB details before relying on a file
The repository says Compositor supports JPEG, PNG, HEIC, TIFF, SVG, camera RAW after a develop step, and Photoshop PSD/PSB files in 8-bit RGB. CMYK is not supported. Some Photoshop content can remain editable on import: folders, masks, blend modes, fill rectangles and ellipses, and simple horizontal text. Other vectors and vertical text are converted to pixels. A conversion report appears before changes are applied. Project file-format and import notes.
If your workflow depends on CMYK artwork, complex vector content, or vertical text remaining editable, test a copy of a representative file before making Compositor part of your production process. The conversion behavior described by the project means that “opens PSD/PSB” does not necessarily mean every layer element stays editable.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
“Lightweight” is not a measured claim
The title phrase “free lightweight Photoshop alternative” is a search description, not a verified size or speed result. The reviewed developer sources provide no app-size measurement, benchmark, or independent performance comparison.
Mac requirements and ways to install
The project repository lists macOS 26.0 or later and a Mac with Apple silicon as requirements. Building from source requires Xcode 26 or later, according to the repository. Homebrew’s cask listing also specifies macOS 26 or later and showed version 1.4.5 on October 4, 2026; software versions and requirements can change. Project repository; Homebrew cask listing.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Check your Mac: confirm it has Apple silicon and runs macOS 26 or later.
- Choose a download route: use the developer’s download page or the project’s GitHub Releases. The repository says releases are signed and notarized and packaged as a DMG.
- Or install with Homebrew: run
brew install --cask robbietilton-compositor, the command documented by the repository. - Try copies of your actual files: pay particular attention to PSD/PSB documents using CMYK, complex vectors, or vertical text before adopting the app for important work.
Who should consider Compositor?
- Consider it if you have a compatible Mac and want a free, open-source editor for layer-based compositing and post-processing.
- Check carefully first if you exchange layered Photoshop files with others or need particular imported elements to remain editable.
- Look elsewhere for this workflow if you need CMYK PSD/PSB support or cannot meet the Apple-silicon and macOS 26 requirement.
Because no independent comparative test is established by the cited sources, treat the developer’s feature list as a guide to what to try—not proof of equivalence to Photoshop.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
