The short answer is no, Paint.NET is not free on the Microsoft Store. While the software itself is a free download when obtained directly from its official website, purchasing the listing on the Microsoft Store requires a one-time fee. This pricing structure often confuses users who expect open-source or freeware tools to maintain identical prices across all distribution channels.
Understanding why this price discrepancy exists helps you decide whether to pay for the convenience of automated store updates or stick with the free web installer. The software functions identically either way, offering layer support, unlimited undo history, and an expansive plugin ecosystem.
Why Paint.NET Costs Money on the Microsoft Store
The core application has remained free for personal and professional use since its inception as an undergraduate college project supervised by Microsoft. However, the developer, Rick Brewster, listed the app on the Microsoft Store as a paid option to serve two distinct purposes: providing a frictionless way for users to financially support ongoing maintenance and accommodating locked operating system environments like Windows 10 S.
When you buy the application through the Microsoft Store entry, the money goes toward funding development costs, minus the standard revenue cut that Microsoft takes. Think of the store fee as an optional donation packaged with automated delivery.
Comparing the Free Website Version and the Store Edition
Choosing between the two available sources depends entirely on how you prefer to manage software updates and installations on your PC.
- The Official Website Download: Acquiring the setup files directly from the creator's site costs nothing. Updates are handled natively inside the application or via manual downloads when new major versions release.
- The Microsoft Store Edition: This version carries a fixed one-time price tag. In exchange, you get integrated deployment across multiple Windows devices tied to your Microsoft account and background updates that install without manual prompts.
Neither option alters the features inside the editor. You get the exact same image manipulation tools, performance capabilities, and file format compatibilities regardless of where you click download.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Paint.NET Without Paying
If you want to use the software without spending money, follow these steps to download the official free version safely:
- Open your web browser and navigate to the official Paint.NET website.
- Look toward the upper right corner or the main landing page for the download link pointing to the free classic desktop release.
- Click the secure download link (often highlighted as a direct
.zipor.install.exelink provided by dotPDN). - Run the downloaded installer on your 64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer.
- Follow the on-screen setup prompts to complete the installation on your local drive.
Avoid third-party mirror sites that bundle adware or outdated versions. Always verify that your browser URL matches the official domain before running executable files.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many users run into friction or safety risks by relying on incorrect search habits. Keep these pitfalls in mind:
- Buying third-party knockoffs: Because the app name is generic, search engines sometimes display scam apps or wrappers on app stores. Always check that the developer is listed as dotPDN LLC.
- Expecting extra features: Don't buy the Microsoft Store version expecting exclusive filters or professional suites like Photoshop. The codebase is identical to the free web version.
- Disabling updates: Whether you use the installer or the store, keeping your software updated ensures compatibility with modern file formats like WebP, AVIF, and HEIC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the paid Microsoft Store version include a free trial?
No. The Microsoft Store listing is sold as a direct purchase rather than a trial subscription. If you want to use Paint.NET without paying, you should download the free installer directly from the project's official website.
Are third-party plugins compatible with both versions?
Yes. Both the free desktop download and the paid store edition support community-created plugins that add custom file types, extra effects, and specialized brushes.
Will my settings transfer if I switch from the free version to the store version?
Your saved preferences and custom plugin folders may require manual relocation because the store version operates inside a sandboxed application container enforced by Windows. It's best to choose one installation method and stick with it.
Is Paint.NET available for macOS or Linux?
No. The application is built specifically for 64-bit Windows environments. Mac and Linux users must look toward alternative open-source raster editors like GIMP or Krita.
