Adobe Photoshop provides the most efficient and reliable workflow for editing smart object layers and offers full compatibility with layered PSD mockups. Since PSD is Photoshop's native file format, all features, including smart objects, layer groups, masks, adjustment layers, blending modes, and effects, are designed to work seamlessly. This makes Photoshop the preferred choice for designers, marketers, and e-commerce sellers who regularly customize product mockups.
However, PSD files are not limited to Adobe Photoshop. Many alternative graphic design applications also support the PSD format, allowing users to edit mockups without a Photoshop subscription. Popular options include Affinity Photo, Photopea, GIMP, Corel PaintShop Pro, and Pixelmator Pro for macOS. The level of compatibility varies between programs. Simple PSD files with standard layers usually open without issues, while more complex mockups that rely on smart objects, advanced layer effects, clipping masks, or adjustment layers may not function exactly as intended. In some applications, certain effects may be flattened, unsupported, or require manual adjustments after opening the file.
For users who prefer working in a web browser, online editors such as Photopea provide support for many PSD features, including smart objects in numerous cases. This makes it possible to edit mockups without installing desktop software, although performance may depend on the file size and the capabilities of the browser.
In addition to graphic editors, some online mockup generators also allow users to customize packaging designs directly through a web interface. These services are convenient for simple editing tasks, but they generally provide fewer customization options than working with the original layered PSD file.
For the best editing experience and full access to every layer and feature, Adobe Photoshop remains the recommended application. Nevertheless, if your workflow relies on other PSD-compatible software, many packaging mockups can still be edited successfully, especially when only basic artwork replacement and image export are required.