mtPaint as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Paint
Updated
Our verdict
mtPaint is a solid replacement for Microsoft Paint, especially for users who want more control without bloat. It handles basic drawing and image editing reliably, and its added features like layers, zoom, and palette editing make it useful for pixel art and light photo work. While it lacks the ultra-simple interface of Paint, anyone comfortable with slightly more advanced tools will benefit. It’s ideal for Linux users who need a fast, no-frills editor that goes slightly beyond Paint’s limits without requiring GIMP-level complexity.
- License
- GPL-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.50.14
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both are raster graphics editors for drawing and basic image editing
- Support common formats like PNG, JPEG, and BMP
- Include basic tools: brush, line, shape, fill, and eraser
- Offer zoom and selection tools for precision
- Start quickly and use minimal system resources
What is different
- mtPaint supports layers; Microsoft Paint does not
- mtPaint includes color palette editing, useful for pixel art
- Microsoft Paint has a simpler, more beginner-friendly UI
- mtPaint lacks some Paint tools like 'Select All' by default or transparent selection
- mtPaint does not support .bmp files with alpha or some legacy RLE formats perfectly
Opening your Microsoft Paint files
mtPaint can open and save BMP, PNG, and JPEG files created in Microsoft Paint without issues in most cases. BMP files saved in standard formats (24-bit, uncompressed) are fully compatible. However, some older or compressed BMP variants (like RLE) may not render correctly. PNG and JPEG files transfer cleanly. If you're migrating old Paint files, test a few samples first, but for typical use, file compatibility is reliable.
Switching from Microsoft Paint to mtPaint, step by step
- Install mtPaint using your package manager: e.g., 'sudo apt install mtpaint' on Debian/Ubuntu
- Open a BMP or PNG file from Microsoft Paint to test compatibility
- Adjust brush and grid settings under 'Brush' and 'View' menus for precision work
- Use 'Layer' menu to experiment with simple compositing if needed
- Save in PNG by default for best quality and transparency support
Key features of mtPaint
- Lightweight and fast startup
- Supports indexed and RGB color modes
- Basic selection and cropping tools
- Layer support for simple compositing
- Adjustable brushes and patterns
- Image format support: PNG, JPEG, BMP, TIFF
- Color palette editing for pixel art
- Zoom and grid tools for precision
How to install mtPaint on Linux
sudo apt install mtpaintsudo apt install mtpaintsudo dnf install mtpaintsudo pacman -S mtpaintFrequently asked questions
Can mtPaint open .bmp files from Windows Paint?
Yes, mtPaint opens most standard BMP files created in Microsoft Paint, especially 24-bit uncompressed ones. Some older compressed BMPs may not display correctly.
Is mtPaint good for pixel art?
Yes, it's well-suited for pixel art thanks to zoom, grid, and color palette editing. Many users choose it specifically for this.
Does mtPaint support transparency like in PNG files?
Yes, mtPaint supports alpha channels in PNG files, allowing transparency editing—something Microsoft Paint lacks.
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