After thorough testing, the best noise reduction software for photographers, Topaz DeNoise AI, has proven to be superior compared to other denoise software such as DxO PureRAW 2, ON1 NoNoise AI, and Luminar NEO. However, each program has its own advantages and disadvantages, and finding a balance between eliminating noise and maximizing the photo’s detail is crucial when it comes to deciding which denoise software to use.
There are so many distinct categories of noise reduction software that it can be challenging to decide which one to utilize. That’s why I decided to conduct a group of tests using the main pieces of noise reduction software for photographers available in the marketplace.
This article provides all the relevant information related to the top noise removal software programs available, including detailed specifications, functions, and graphic test results conducted using each specific piece of software.
Ready to discover which noise reduction software is best in 2024?
Briefly, here are the best noise reduction software to eliminate noise in photography, expressed concisely:
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- Topaz DeNoise AI: The most sophisticated noise cancellation software on the market, owing to its utilization of AI technologies.
- DXO PureRAW 2: Ultimate AI technology and an intuitive user interface to eliminate noise.
- ON1 NoNoise AI: Cutting-edge computational techniques to clean up noise in your imagery.
- Topaz Photo AI: An all-around photo enhancement tool equipped with an AI denoise feature.
- Adobe Lightroom: Reduces the noise in the RAW report cleanly and swiftly.
- Adobe Photoshop: One of the best methods to selectively decrease noise using masks.
- Noiseware: One technique that is straightforward and highly effective for removing digital noise from images.
- Skylum Luminar NEO:Another photo editing software alternative to Lightroom that can reduce image noise.
- Nik Dfine 2: Software incorporated into the Nik Collection that is designed for basic noise reduction tasks.
- Capture One:Great color noise reduction with hot pixels elimination.
Table of Contents
1. Topaz Denoise AI
Topaz DeNoise AI is the best noise reduction software when considering all of its attributes combined. It automatically removes digital noise from grainy sections while protecting the detail.
You can adjust the noise removal using two basic controllers to remove noise and sharpen the image. Denoise AI also incorporates more advanced options, like a low-light mode for high-ISO images (Perfect for Milky way photography) and masks to apply the effect selectively without having to use Photoshop.
What are the Pros
- State-of-the-art noise subtraction algorithm
- Preserves finely intricate specifics
- Processed sequentially
- Support for RAW and DNG files
- Multiple AI models to handle different scenarios
- Chat support
- 30-day refund guarantee
What are the Cons
- High system requirements
- Slow processing speed
- Continued software improvements after the initial year period.
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Regarding noise removal, DxO PureRAW utilizes an advanced algorithm similar to DeNoise AI. However, I prefer DeNoise AI when noise removal is needed for my images since it provides more options and includes a Photoshop plugin. I created a specific review and tutorial on Denoise AI that explains how to use the tool.
Topaz DeNoise AI can be used independently or as a plug-in in both Lightroom and Photoshop for a cost of $79.99 ( check the offer). You can also download the free trial version.
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I also created a video tutorial and review of DxO DeepPrime DeNoise AI below!
There is also recently released software from Topaz called Topaz Photo AI that features a basic version of DeNoise AI with some noise reducing attributes + other sharpening and enlarging adjustments. You can read more in my Topaz Photo AI Evaluation.
2. DxO PureRaw 2
DxO PureRAW2 is an outstanding piece of software for reducing digital noise, and, when it comes to reducing noise in photography, this software is unrivaled.
Similar to DeNoise AI, one of the main benefits of employing this program is the sophisticated application of artificial intelligence to decrease the noise in your visuals. It offers a very user-friendly interface, and you can easily enhance the quality of your photos in only a couple clicks.
What are the Pros
- Noise reduction algorithm performance is unmatched
- The workflow is simple and intuitive.
- Lightroom plugin
- Uncommonly precise detail recovery
What are the Cons
- Deficiency of input settings
- No plugin for Photoshop.
- Creates very large DNG files
A
Following implementing this software, DxO PureRAW’s 2 interface is quite straightforward, perhaps excessively so. It lacks any sliders or adjustments. The artificial intelligence is so capable you most likely won’t necessitate changing any settings, but it’s always preferable to have the option if needed. That’s one of the primary cons, along with not having a plug-in for Photoshop. You can find more specifics and how it functions in our DXO PureRAW 2 Review.
The pricing of DxO PureRAW2 is $129 ( check the price here), so it’s the most expensive denoising software on this list. You can download PureRAW 2 without cost and try it for 30 days, which I recommend, and test the program yourself.
3. ON1 NoNoise AI
ON1 NoNoise AI has quickly become one of my favorite programs to reduce noise in photography images, as the latest addition to this top-rated noise reduction software evaluation.
Its AI skills place it right on par with its direct competitors (DeNoise AI and PureRAW). However, it allows more than just removing noise. It features a complete series of tools to boost the RAW files.
What are the Pros
- AI algorithm has strengths
- Plugins for most photo editors
- Price
- Various tools that can improve photos
What are the Cons
- Interface requires more usability
- May experience delays at times
A
When it comes to removing sound in your pictures, ON1 NoNoise AI does a great job. It removes all the noise in the image and maintains detail. It does a particularly good job in wildlife photography and portraits; however, if it involves astrophotography, I would use it carefully. Head over to the ON1 NoNoise AI assessment article I recently wrote to learn more.
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4. Topaz Photo AI
Topaz Photo AIis one of the most recent noise reduction software available on the market and it has quickly become one of the most utilized thanks to its intuitive interface and wide range of AI-powered tools. With Topaz Photo AI you can reduce noise in your images, sharpen them and enlarge them, all through one tool.
Topaz Photo AI has some of the best capabilities for reducing noise; however, it still needs to catch up with a few of its competitors in certain areas.
What are the Pros
- Integrates multiple tools
- The workflow is simple and intuitive.
- Compatibility with most file formats
- Lifelong access
- Batch exporting
What are the Cons
- Lack of advanced functionality
- Slow processing speed
- Product upgrades are limited to 1 year
- Restricted AI capabilities
I’ve been using Topaz Photo AI since its release and I tend to default to it whenever I need a quick fix for my images without wanting to, or having time to, adjust multiple settings to achieve the best outcome. With Photo AI you can simply import your photo, and the Autopilot feature will handle everything for you.
You have the choice to obtain Topaz Photo AI for $199, which gives you access to the noise removal, sharpening, upscaling, automatic editing, face detection, and protected text tools. You can also try out Photo AI at no cost before purchasing.
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5. Adobe Lightroom
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In terms of noise reduction, there are two main options in Lightroom, inside the “Develop” module, you can utilize the traditional method to decrease luminance and chromatic noise, or you can employ the AI-powered denoise to eliminate the noise while maintaining all the detail.
What are the Pros
- User-friendly noise removal resources
- Full-featured photo editor
- Numerous digital audio filters can reduce unwanted noise.
- Batch editing capabilities were available.
- Brand new AI denoise feature
What are the Cons
- AI denoise needs improvement
- No AI denoise models to choose from
The new AI Denoise feature in Lightroom has arrived to rival other software programs like Topaz Denoise AI and DxO PureRAW among others. This novel capability causes Lightroom to be a very complete photo editing tool. Lightroom Denoise AI still necessitates some refinement, but it truly is heading in the right direction. Since it is the most used noise reduction software in photography, we authored a specific article on approaches to decrease noise in Lightroom.
The cost of Lightroom varies depending on the Adobe package. As a reference, the basic photography package costs $19.99 per month.
6. Adobe Photoshop
As we previously referenced, noise reduction in Photoshop is the most successful way to diminish and remove digital noise selectively using masks.
In Photoshop, you have the option to refine noise reduction using Adobe Camera Raw, which is recommended since it employs a similar algorithm as Lightroom but with the major benefit of applying adjustments in a much more focused manner. As with Lightroom, Adobe Camera Raw has also integrated the new AI Denoise feature, which substantially improves image quality.
Additionally, you have the option to employ noise reduction filters as well as other more advanced strategies to eliminate digital noise, such as merging noise reduction or stacking noise reduction. I demonstrate these techniques in my noise reduction in photoshop tutorial.
What are the Pros
- Various noise deduction tools
- Photoshop`s highly effective masking tools
- Different plugins from which to select
- Top photo editing program on the market
- AI Noise Reduction in Camera Raw
What are the Cons
- Time-intensive noise reduction process
- A steep learning curve was required.
In summary, the opportunities to reduce and eliminate noise with Photoshop are endless and don’t forget that you also have the choice to employ numerous Photoshop denoising plugins such as DeNoise AI, Noiseware, Dfine, and most significantly, the new AI Denoise which has also arrived to Camera Raw.
Photoshop’s cost in the basic Adobe photo package is $19.99 per month.
7. Noiseware
Decreasing noise with Noiseware is very straightforward since it allows you to remove noise with a single click and without having to make manual choices or to adjust other settings.
Noiseware incorporates different preset modes dependent on the quantity of noise desired for removal and customizable settings in case manual noise reduction adjustment is preferred.
What are the Pros
- Great tone and contrast restoration
- Simple to utilize
- Fast
- Not demanding much computer power
What are the Cons
- Careful calibration of lens settings is recommended to achieve the desired results.
- solely accessible as a Photoshop plugin
- Noise reduction algorithm is outdated
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The cost for Noiseware is $79.95 and it can only be utilized as an extension in Photoshop.
8. Luminar NEO
Luminar NEO is another capable photo editor better known for its AI functions, and it includes a noise reduction choice.
To decrease noise impacts in Luminar NEO, in addition to basic noise reduction settings, adjustments can be made more selectively using masks and layers similar to Photoshop, with the benefit of non-destructive processing.
Luminar NEO noise reduction is applied using a setting called “ Denoise,” which allows you to diminish luminance or color commotion.
What are the Pros
- Simple and easy to use
- An alternative photo editing software to Lightroom offering a more affordable option.
- Regular revisions
- Enables the organization of photos using transparent overlays.
What are the Cons
- No AI for noise reduction.
- Can have slower performance at times
- No plugins for Lightroom or Photoshop
The cost of Luminar NEO is $79 ( check the offer) for a permanent license on one device and $59 for a year-long subscription, making it a very inexpensive option. You can also try it out by downloading the free trial version following the link below.
9. Nik Dfine 2
Contained within the well-known Nik Collection 5 software bundle, Nik Dfine 2 is one approach to reducing digital noise that is widely adopted.
With Nik Dfine noise reduction, the software examines the noise in the image and automatically applies the required noise reduction. It also permits you to manually choose the noisy regions and fine-tune the process manually.
What are the Pros
- User-friendly controls
- can be operated independently as software
- Software additions for Lightroom and Photoshop
- Rapid image handling
What are the Cons
- It obscures too many finer aspects
- Components cannot be bought individually
- The localized adjustments are not precise
Nik Collection 5 costs $149 in a package containing 8 advanced plugins like Color Efex Pro or Silver Efex Pro. A free trial version is also available for testing.
10. Capture One
Capture One provides more advanced tools and customization options than Lightroom. Given the cost and functionalities available, this software is usually aimed at professional photographers.
In terms of noise reduction, in addition to settings such as luminance or chromatic noise reduction, which share similarities to those in Lightroom, Capture One includes a slider called “single-pixel“ dedicated to reducing warm grains, which works remarkably well.
What are the Pros
- Exceptional reduction of color noise
- A one-pixel tool for detecting stuck/dead pixels
- Superb photographic editing capabilities for professionals
- Layers and powerful masking tools
What are the Cons
- The most pricey software on this list
- Struggles to maintain detail
- Requires adeptness
Capture One costs $299 or $24/month, so it’s not an affordable choice unless you develop your entire editing process utilizing this software and you need top-leveled editing tools. You can examine the diverse possibilities here.
As can be seen, there is an enormous amount of programming and expansion choices to expel advanced commotion.
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COMPARISON: What is the best noise reduction software? – Graphic Test
After contrasting more imagery with all the different photographic noise reduction software and thoughtfully analyzing the graphical outcomes, these are my deductions:
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- The top overall software for noise reduction is Topaz DeNoise AI. The AI capabilities, intuitive interface, and multiple AI models make this software my preferred choice for noise reduction.
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- The best software for decreasing luminance noise is equivalent between Topaz DeNoise AI and DxO PureRAW 2. They are even more powerful when utilized as denoise plugins in Lightroom and Photoshop (only for DeNoise AI). ON1 NoNoise AI is also really talented.
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- The software considered best at preserving detail during noise reduction processing, according to all tests done, is unquestionably DxO PureRAW 2. Its artificial intelligence noise reduction technology cleans away noise while remarkably maintaining detail in the stars and landscape. The runner up is Topaz DeNoise AI, and third place goes to ON1 NoNoise AI, but Topaz Photo AI is very competitive.
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- Undoubtedly, the premier software for reducing color noise is Capture One. Simply inspecting the test images confirms this at a glance. Not only does it effectively eliminate all the color banding, but it also results in quite natural hues.
Just so you can draw your own conclusions, below, you’ll find the graphic tests of all the noise reduction software used in the previous photo, with a 100% crop image so you can see the noise removal process in more detail.
WHAT NOISE REDUCTION SOFTWARE OR PLUGIN SHOULD I USE?
| The top-rated software for noise reduction is considered to be Topaz DeNoise AI, followed closely by DxO PureRAW 2 and ON1 NoNoise AI. However, while DeNoise AI is the most advanced in reducing noise, it does not eliminate it completely, and deciding which program to use depends greatly on factors such as the kind of photography one does, established workflow processes, and available budget. |
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In a general sense, I would propose the following:
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- If you currently work with Lightroom or Photoshop, you can take advantage of all the features they offer by using a simple and effective plugin, like Topaz DeNoise AI, or ON1 NoNoise AI; both are top-tier when it comes to noise reduction. However, if you prefer not to pay extra for a third party plugin, the new AI Denoise characteristics added to both Lightroom and Camera Raw will provide excellent outcomes.
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- If photo editing software is not used and Lightroom exceeds the budget ($9.99 monthly), DXO PureRAW 2 or DeNoise AI standalone versions can be used, or beginning with a less expensive photo editor containing noise reduction tools, like Luminar NEO, fixed at $59 annually. The standalone ON1 NoNoise AI version is also worth considering.
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- All the electronic tools and software covered in this article provide free trial periods, which allows you to download the different plugins, test them with your own visual content, and select the plugin that best fits your needs and preferences.
What do you think the best noise reduction software is?
If you use any other plugin that I didn’t mention, please add it in the comments so I can include it in future updates. Thank you!
