Photoshop Elements 5 vs 6

[DJShuttering]

I was wondering if the added cost on ebay is worth getting version 6 over version 5. Any advice for me? Any is greatly appreciated.

[Headcase650]

Im using 5 and it works great for me....but it came free with my $99 bamboo tablet. Right now I think thats about the best deal on the market. Small bamboo fun comes with elements 5, painter essentials 3, and a Nik filter program. A year ago all these programs would have cost you nearly $300. They work just as well now as they did then if thats what your looking for.

[mattograph]

Yes. If for no other reason then the interface which is seriously much cooler looking.

[Kent Clark]

Many people complain about the lack of contrast in the new Elements 6 interface that mattograph comments on. The background is a dark gray and some of the icons/lettering are a lighter gray. Some people find it very hard to read in bright rooms.

I have no experience with PSE6 since I'm happy with version 5 but the topic comes up a lot on the elements forums at adobe and Elements Village with more than a few saying that it is unusable for them. I think you can download a 30 day trial from Adobe to see how it works for you.

[mattograph]

Yes. I never used 5, so I can't comment on the comparison. other than the appearance, which I observed.

I believe (and I am no expert) that the big changes are the guided edit (for beginners -- great for teaching workflow), the look, and photomerge features. Since I run it on a Mac, I did not have a choice, though -- there was no version 5 for Mac.

If you want 5, I have an unopened copy that I will sell you. Send me a PM if you are interested.