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GIMP

The long-running free and open-source raster image editor for Linux, Windows and macOS.

Open sourcePhoto editing apps
Visit GIMPSee 6 alternatives
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About GIMP

GIMP, the GNU Image Manipulation Program, is the best-known free alternative to Photoshop. It covers retouching, compositing, painting and image authoring with layers, masks, selections, filters, colour tools and a scripting and plug-in system, and the 3.x series brought non-destructive filters, better colour management and a refreshed interface. Its workflow and terminology differ from Photoshop's, so people switching need time to adjust, and some professional features, such as full CMYK print workflows, are still limited compared with commercial tools. It opens PSD files, though complex layered documents may not survive the round trip perfectly. GIMP is developed by volunteers under the GNU GPL and costs nothing to download or use commercially. It runs on Linux, Windows and macOS, and is often paired with other free tools such as Inkscape and Scribus.

Best for: Anyone who wants a capable layered image editor at no cost, especially on Linux.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Free and open source with no account or licence fees
  • Runs on Linux, Windows and macOS
  • Extensible with scripts and plug-ins

Why people leave

  • Interface and terms differ a lot from Photoshop
  • Limited CMYK and print-production support
  • Fewer AI-assisted tools than commercial editors

Top GIMP alternatives

See all 6
  1. 1Paint.NET logo
    Paint.NET

    Simpler free Windows editor with layers that is quicker to learn for everyday edits.

    57.2
  2. 2Pinta logo
    Pinta

    Lightweight open-source editor for basic layered edits on Linux, Mac and Windows.

    55.3
  3. 3Krita logo
    Krita

    Also free and open source, with a much stronger brush engine for painting.

    54.5
  4. 4Adobe Photoshop logo
    Adobe Photoshop

    The professional standard, with deeper tools and AI features if you can pay the subscription.

    53.6
  5. 5Photopea logo
    Photopea

    Free in the browser with a Photoshop-style layout and better PSD handling.

    49.1

Why people left GIMP

In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.

No switching stories yet. If you moved away from GIMP, review the app you switched to and tell us why.

Reviews

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GIMP: common questions

Is GIMP free?

Yes. GIMP is free, open-source software.

Is GIMP open source?

Yes.

What platforms does GIMP run on?

GIMP is available for Windows, macOS and Linux.

What are the best alternatives to GIMP?

The highest-ranked GIMP alternatives right now are Paint.NET, Pinta and Krita. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 6 GIMP alternatives