Online tools are convenient but upload your files. Desktop tools require installation but offer more power. Here's an honest comparison to help you choose the right approach.
Online Tools — Pros and Cons
- ✓ No installation — works on any device with a browser
- ✓ Always up to date — no manual updates
- ✓ Work on mobile and tablets
- ✗ Most upload your files to external servers (privacy risk)
- ✗ Dependent on internet connection
- ✗ File size limits on free tiers
Desktop Tools — Pros and Cons
- ✓ Full privacy — files stay on your machine
- ✓ Works offline
- ✓ No file size limits
- ✓ More powerful batch processing
- ✗ Requires installation and updates
- ✗ Not available on mobile
- ✗ Often expensive (Photoshop, etc.)
FileCurve: The Best of Both Worlds
FileCurve is an online tool that processes files in your browser — combining the convenience of online tools with the privacy of desktop apps. Your files never leave your device. It also works offline after the first load (PWA).
When to Use Desktop Tools
- ✓ Batch processing thousands of files
- ✓ Advanced editing (layers, masks, etc.)
- ✓ Working with very large files (100MB+)
- ✓ No internet connection available