GIMP

GIMP is a free image editor for retouching photos, composing images, and making original artwork. It suits designers, illustrators, and photographers working with images that do not require RAW support. Its strongest case is the range of creative and scripting tools available without a software fee; its clearest limitation is that RAW photography needs another tool.

Overview

GIMP spans photo retouching, image composition, illustration, and design production. It can be used to create icons, graphic elements, interface art, and mockups, making it a practical fit for people whose work crosses between editing and asset creation. That breadth is useful, though readers seeking a focused RAW photography workflow should choose a different editor.

The project dates to 1995 and is distributed under the GNU General Public License. Its privacy policy says the software has no ads or trackers and does not collect, transmit, share, or use personal data. Remote file access can expose an IP address or other connection data, and image files may contain metadata.

Key features

Layers and masks provide control over image composition, while batch editing can help with repeated work across multiple images. GIMP 3.2 adds link and vector layers and non-destructive filters for channels, layers, and layer groups. These capabilities make it suitable for layered projects that may need revision, although they do not fill the RAW support gap.

GIMP supports scripted image manipulation in C, C++, Python, and Scheme, and can be customized with plug-ins and scripts, including community-created additions. That flexibility can suit users who want to adapt repeatable workflows or extend the program. Color management also supports publishing work, with workflows recommended alongside Scribus and Inkscape.

Version 3.2 adds formats including APNG, JPEG 2000 export, and Photoshop PSB export. The downloads page publishes SHA256 hashes for installers and AppImages and links to VirusTotal checks. For questions and comments, the project recommends forums or IRC; software bugs and feature requests go to its issue tracker.

Pricing

GIMP costs nothing. The free software is available under the GNU General Public License and can be downloaded for GNU/Linux, macOS, Windows, and more. There is no free trial because the program is free software; there are no paid tiers or seat limits to weigh against its capabilities.

Platforms

GIMP supports Linux, macOS, and Windows. The installer requires macOS 11 Big Sur or newer, or Windows 10 version 1903 or newer. GIMP 3.2.0 is the last version distributed as 32-bit software for Windows, and the team cannot promise support for building 32-bit GIMP from source, so older 32-bit Windows setups are a poor fit for users who need ongoing version support.

Who it's for

GIMP is a strong choice for graphic designers, photographers, illustrators, and scientists who need image editing, composition, artwork creation, or automation and want to avoid software fees. Its scripting and plug-in support will matter most to users with repeatable or customized workflows. Photographers who rely on RAW files should pair it with a RAW-capable application or choose another editor as their main tool.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Free software under the GNU General Public License gives users broad editing and artwork tools without a subscription cost.
• Pros: Layers, masks, batch editing, and non-destructive filters support complex compositions and revision.
• Pros: Scripting in several languages and community plug-ins allow customization and workflow automation.
• Cons: No RAW photo support makes GIMP unsuitable as a complete editor for RAW-first photography.
• Cons: Windows 32-bit distribution ends with version 3.2.0, limiting users who depend on later 32-bit releases.

Alternatives

Photopea has a free editor account and supports web and mobile platforms as well as desktop systems; consider it if browser access or those platforms fit your workflow better. Its school ad-free access costs $450 a year for the whole school.

darktable is a free, open-source photography workflow application and RAW developer for Linux, macOS, and Windows. Choose it when RAW development is central; GIMP instead covers artwork and image composition.

Photomator is a paid option for Apple platforms, with a monthly subscription at $7.99 a month for one license covering Mac, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Vision Pro. It may suit readers who want an Apple-focused editor and accept a subscription.

RawTherapee is free and supports Linux, macOS, and Windows. Its stated limits include no digital asset management, printing, or uploading features, so it is a narrower alternative for readers prioritizing RAW processing.

PhotoDirector is a freemium alternative for macOS and Windows.

VSCO is a freemium alternative for web, iOS, and Android, with a free Starter plan that includes 15 presets.

BeFunky offers a free plan with basic photo editing tools, limited templates and assets, and export without a subscription.

PhotoPad is a freemium alternative available across desktop, web, and mobile platforms.

For more options, browse Photo Editing Software.

Verdict

Choose GIMP if you want a free, customizable toolkit for image editing, layered composition, and original artwork across Linux, macOS, or Windows. Its mix of scripting, extensibility, and design tools is compelling for users who handle varied visual work. Look elsewhere if RAW support is central to your photography workflow.