Background removal is one of those tasks that used to take forever in Photoshop but now takes seconds thanks to AI. Remove.bg revolutionized this space, but it's not the only player anymore, and depending on your needs, it might not even be the best choice.
Whether you're looking for better pricing, more features, API access, or bulk processing capabilities, there are several excellent alternatives worth considering.
In this article, I'll walk through the best remove.bg alternatives, covering free options, developer-friendly tools, and professional solutions.
Why Look for Remove.bg Alternatives?
Remove.bg is excellent, but it has limitations:
- Credit-based pricing can get expensive with high volumes
- *Limited free tier for 0.25mpx images, not helpful for product images
- No built-in image optimization after background removal
- API costs add up quickly for developers. Pricing starts at 9 Euros for just 40 images
- Lack of WordPress integration for content creators
If any of these resonate with you, an alternative might be a better fit.
Top Remove.bg Alternatives
1. ShortPixel.com – Best All-in-One Solution
What makes it special: ShortPixel combines AI background removal with image optimization in one tool, which is particularly useful for web developers who need both services. It also includes CDN delivery and advanced image optimization features.
Here's an example of ShortPixel's background removal in action:
Key Features:
- AI-powered background removal
- Automatic image optimization (WebP/AVIF conversion, compression)
- WordPress plugin available
- Bulk online processing for archives
- Online Optimizer to optimize images directly within browser
- API access for developers
- Just $8.33/month for Unlimited images
Best For:
- WordPress site owners
- Web developers needing both optimization and background removal
- E-commerce stores with product catalogs
- Anyone wanting to consolidate tools
Why choose ShortPixel over remove.bg?
If you're running a website, you're likely already dealing with image optimization for page speed and SEO. ShortPixel handles both background removal and optimization in one service, which can simplify your workflow and potentially reduce costs.
For example, if you're using remove.bg for backgrounds and another service for compression, ShortPixel combines both. The WordPress plugin automates the entire process, upload an image, and it handles background removal and optimization automatically.
Pricing: $8.33 per month for unlimited images
2. PhotoRoom – Best for Mobile & E-commerce
What makes it special: Mobile-first design with e-commerce templates and instant background replacement.
Key Features:
- Instant background removal on mobile devices
- Pre-made templates for product photography
- Batch editing capabilities
- Magic Retouch for object removal
Best For:
- E-commerce sellers (Shopify, Etsy, Amazon)
- Social media content creators
- Mobile-first workflows
- Quick product photography
Pricing: Starts at ~$5.50/month
3. Slazzer – Best for Bulk Processing
What makes it special: Desktop app for offline processing and excellent bulk capabilities.
Here's an example of Slazzer's background removal results:
Key Features:
- Process up to 1,000 images simultaneously
- Desktop application (Windows, Mac, Linux)
- Works offline after initial setup
- Drag-and-drop interface
- API for developers
Best For:
- Photographers processing large batches
- Design agencies with high volumes
- Users who need offline capabilities
Pricing: Starts at 6.33 Euros for 10 images
4. Pixlr Remove Background – Best Free Option
What makes it special: Part of the Pixlr suite, completely free for basic use.
Key Features:
- Unlimited free background removal (with ads)
- No account required
- Built into Pixlr photo editor
- Export in multiple formats
Best For:
- Casual users with occasional needs
- Students and hobbyists
- Quick one-off edits
- Budget-conscious individuals
Pricing: Starts at $2.49 per month
5. Photoscissors – Best for Desktop Power Users
What makes it special: Professional desktop software with manual refinement tools.
Here's an example of Photoscissors' background removal results:
Key Features:
- Native desktop application (no upload required)
- Manual marker tools for precision
- Batch processing
- Works completely offline
- One-time purchase option
Best For:
- Professional photographers
- Privacy-conscious users (no cloud uploads)
- Users needing manual control
Pricing: Starts at $4.99 for 10 images
How to Choose the Right Alternative
Consider these factors when picking a background removal tool:
Your platform: If you're using WordPress, look for plugins that integrate directly with your media library. Web-based tools work for anyone, while desktop apps offer offline capabilities.
Volume needs: Occasional users can get by with free tiers. High-volume processing (hundreds or thousands of images) requires either affordable bulk pricing or unlimited subscriptions.
Image complexity: Simple product photos work well with most tools. Portraits with hair, fur, or complex edges need more advanced AI models.
Additional features: Some tools only remove backgrounds, while others also handle optimization, compression, and CDN delivery, useful if you need multiple services.
Mobile vs desktop workflow: Choose based on where you do most of your work. Some tools excel on mobile, others are desktop-focused.
Final Thoughts
Remove.bg pioneered accessible background removal, but the space has evolved. Today's alternatives offer better pricing, additional features, and specialized capabilities that might better fit your workflow.
One thing worth considering: if you're already dealing with image optimization for web performance, tools that combine both background removal and optimization can simplify your workflow and potentially reduce costs compared to using separate services.
For WordPress users specifically, you have more comprehensive solutions like ShortPixel that combine background removal with optimization and CDN delivery.
What's your experience with background removal tools? Drop your favorite in the comments below!
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