A manual Photoshop workflow gives maximum control: you paint masks, sculpt frequencies by hand, and micro-manage every channel. A free PBR generator online like GenPBR optimizes for throughput: derive PBR texture maps quickly, then reserve Photoshop for areas where humans still outperform automation.
Decision checklist
- Use GenPBR first when you need baseline normal/metal/rough/AO fast— especially on the browser-based generator with no signup friction for the public tool.
- Use Photoshop first when art direction demands unique storytelling in the albedo or masks that algorithms cannot infer.
- Hybrid when you need speed and hero-level polish on a focal asset.
Stay oriented in the GenPBR hub
Jump back to the GenPBR homepage when you want positioning, or read support guides alongside blog tutorials for deeper Photoshop integration tips.