Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic – Key Differences (2025)
Lightroom Classic is the basic desktop version of Adobe Lightroom. Later according to users’ needs, in 2007 Adobe launched another version of Lightroom named Lightroom CC.
Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic, these are two separate versions of Lightroom Photo Editor. We will discuss the key differences in both versions.
So, let’s dive into the details of Lightroom (CC) and Lightroom Classic.
What is Lightroom CC?
Lightroom was previously known as Lightroom CC, where “CC” stands for “creative cloud.” It’s a cloud-based photo and video editor where your data will save automatically through syncing. You don’t need to worry about losing your data, as it is saved in cloud storage, and you can access it with any device (desktop or mobile). Lightroom works on the web, Android, desktop, and iOS.
What is Lightroom Classic?
Lightroom Classic is the desktop-based version of Adobe Lightroom. It is fully optimized for desktops and provides more enhanced and organized features for users. Lightroom is the best-featured editor for professionals as well as beginners. You can edit any project in Lightroom with advanced tools on a desktop and work faster with keyboard shortcuts. It provides a smooth and relaxed interface for professionals and stores data in local storage. You can check this article if you want to download the Lightroom for PC.
Comparison Table
| Features | Lightroom | Lightroom Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Functionality | Modern, Streamlined UI | Traditional Adobe UI |
| Storage | Cloud-Based | Local |
| File Backup | Automatic File Backup | Not Included |
| Operating Platform | Web, Mobile, and Desktop | Desktop |
| Tethered Shooting | Limited tethered support | Comprehensive Support |
| Image Organization | AI-Based image organization | Selective keyword search |
| Offline or online | Allows offline work | Required Internet |
| Plugin Support | Minimal third-party plugin compatibility | Broad third-party plugin compatibility |
Features: Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic
Here are some major differences between Lightroom and Lightroom Classic:
Interface: Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic
Lightroom provides a simple and easy-to-use interface. It gives a smooth and amazing Android, desktop, and iPhone interface. You can capture stunning photos and edit them effortlessly in an intuitive interface. It allows the user to utilize the application according to their preference. Lightroom (CC) also provides a user-friendly organization for easy browsing.
On the other hand, Lightroom Classic provides a seamless interface for desktops and focuses on maintaining a classic user experience. Although its interface is a bit more complex than Lightroom’s, it provides more options to fine-tune your photos.
Database: Local Storage vs Cloud Storage
Lightroom uses a cloud-based storage system, which means that you can save and edit your pictures on cloud storage, and your data will be saved there. You can access your data through mobile, desktop, or tablet, and changes you make on one device will automatically be saved on other devices.
Meanwhile, Lightroom Classic uses a traditional local storage system where your pictures are stored on your computer. You don’t need an internet connection to access your photos because they are saved locally on your device. You can’t restore your data when your device is lost due to the lack of a cloud system.
Organization and Photo Search
The major difference between LR and Lr Classic is that Lightroom is based on AI-powered Adobe Sensei image organization. Lightroom allows you to add a keyword or tagging features to your images and you can search them easily with keywords or tags.
For instance, if you search the keyword “tree” in Lightroom, it will show you all pictures with “tree”.
In contrast, Lightroom Classic does not allow the feature of image organization. You must arrange the pictures manually; finding a specific picture will take a long time.
Mobile Workflow: Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic
Lightroom CC is multi-device editing software. It can be used on mobile, desktop, and tablet. This makes it easier for users to use Lightroom anywhere with their devices.
Alternatively, Lightroom Classic is not a mobile-based software, it will operate only on desktops. However, its desktop versions provide more features or functionality to users.
Tethered Shooting: Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic
Tethered Shooting is a photography technique in which the camera is connected to a computer, and when you capture a picture, it will be displayed on a computer. This gives you immediate review and adjustments throughout a photo shoot.
Lightroom offers a limited version of tethered shooting while Lightroom Classic provides a more extensive version.
Pros and Cons of Lightroom CC
Pros
Cons
Pros and Cons of Lightroom Classic
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic is a nonstop debate to find which one is better but I hope this article will help you to differentiate between Lightroom CC and Lightroom Classic. Lightroom mobile is the best option for a quick grip and it fulfills all editing needs. You can download the latest free version of Lightroom from this site. Otherwise, if you are doing a large project, you may go with Lightroom Classic.
