Compare software

Ansel vs darktable: catalog facts
Anseldarktable
Free

Free and open source.

Free

Free and open source, funded by donations.

Windows, Linux Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Precise manual control over RAW development
  • Independent color controls based on modern color science
  • Fully non-destructive: your original raw file is never modified
  • Professional colour management maintained all the way through to print
  • Manual approach takes time to learn
  • Smaller project than darktable
  • The project itself says it is not a free Adobe Lightroom replacement
  • A steep learning curve; the module list assumes you know the underlying concepts
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Open source Open source
License not stated License: GPL-3.0
No account needed No account needed
Works offline Works offline

Checked September 23, 2026

Checked September 20, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.