Purchasing PSP

The easiest way to purchase Paint Shop Pro is through Corel. Currently the full version of PSP X3 is being sold for $39.99 and upgrades are $34.99.

When it comes to software, most people will automatically choose the latest version. That may be the right choice for you with PSP as well. Still you might want to consider the following, when making your choice.

Corel purchased Paint Shop Pro from Jasc, who created PSP through version 9. Corel has subsequently added versions X, XI, X2 and X3.

Corel's X series use substantially more memory than the earlier versions. If your computer is already memory challenged, you might consider a less weighty version. My first PSP software was version XI and I had no trouble using it with my XP operating system. It does not play nicely with my Windows 7 system. I didn't purchase X3, but used the 30 day trial and had similar problems.

On the brighter side, X3 does have a number of new photo processing features. Check out the link provided to get a full description. If your main interest is editing and enhancing your photos, this may be the version for you. There is a tabbed section on that page which includes a tab for a 30 day free trial. I'd recommend the trial, if you are interested in X3. You'll be able to determine how well it works with your computer during that period.

Jasc's PSP9 version is favored by many PSP users. It's a good choice, if you are interested in creating your own images or animations. Animation Shop, a Jasc product that is included with PSP9 at no extra cost, is used to create animated images. You'll have to do an online search to acquire this version. It is not too difficult to find free downloads. If you're hesitant to download from unfamiliar sites, consider buying a used copy through Ebay. There are currently a number of copies starting under $10. Be sure that the Animation Shop disc has been included in the purchase.

So choose your copy of PSP and get it installed. Then you can move on to the fun stuff.