Neat Image Software

Hi Guys,
I'm looking into getting hold of Neat Image software for my Puter and I was wondering whether it is 'better' to get the Photoshop version or the Standalone version?
I know that 'better' is subjective and I'm asking for opinions on the two different versions?
While I'm asking the questions, I might as well also ask as to differing opinions of Neat Image verses Topaz DeNoise as far as usability and results are concerned?
Probably no correct answer, but I certainly appreciate everyone's opinion . . .
Thanks for taking the time,
Bruce
Sorry Guys, I forgot to mention that my normal operating software is Lightroom subscription and I also have Photoshop subscription loaded onto the computer if this changes anyone's opinion. . .
Bruce

I wrote an article on these software packages in the December 2016 issue - you can access this under the 'Resources' items on the website. I prefer Neat Image because of the ability to set up camera noise profiles and the 'auto-profiling' feature as well which customises the noise settings for specific images or camera and ISO combinations. However, Topaz is much simpler to use and arguably does just as good a job.

As for plug-in versus standalone, I don't have the Photoshop Elements plug-in version. I suspect the standalone version will suffer one major disadvantage - it can't be used only on selected parts of the image (at least not easily). Using the photoshop or PSE plug-in enables you to apply noise reduction to the current selection only, and use all the powerful selection tools in Photoshop to initially make those selections. However, as I don't have the standalone version as I said, I can't be completely certain on this point. I routinely apply NR to only selected parts of the image and I wouldn't be happy if I couldn't.

Don't forget, you don't have to commit any money to find out for yourself because both Neat Image and Topaz are available on a free trial basis for a month, although Neat Image is limited to a maximum image area during the trial period. (You'll still be able to get a good idea of whether you like it or not). The trial version of Topaz is fully functional (or at least was when I checked it out last year).

Oh, and I forgot to mention that the Google Nik suite has a completely free NR tool of similar sophistication to Topaz and Neat Image. This took is called Dfine.

Glenn

Thanks Glenn,
You're a ripper. . .
Geez there's a lot of very talented and helpful people on this forum. I would like to thank them all for all their help over the time that i have been here.
It really is tremendous to be able to call on these great minds to help shorten the learning curve. Thanks guys. . .
Bruce

Hi Glenn,
This might be of some info for you mate:

http://www.neatimage.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2417

HTH,
Bruce

Well it's only taken me 3 and a bit years to read your article but now I finally have a new computer with new DPP and new PSE and Neat Image, I can't wait to get started.........now to dust off the camera and find me some birds
Your article is so clear and understandable (even for me). Much appreciated.
Kath