GIMP
An open-source desktop image workspace
Where it fits
GIMP is a free desktop image editor for people willing to learn its own workflow. It is useful for photo manipulation, painted artwork and layered graphics without a mandatory subscription. Current GIMP 3.2 includes link and vector layers alongside nondestructive filters, so comparisons based only on older releases miss significant changes. Its working format is XCF, with exports for delivery to other tools. RAW photography and print workflows can involve additional applications or specific format constraints. Evaluate the file handoff you actually need before replacing an established editor. Free access removes a license charge but does not remove learning or migration work.
Consider it for
- Free desktop photo manipulation
- Layered raster artwork
- Open-source workflows
Know the limits
- XCF is the native working format
- Camera RAW uses a supported external processor
- Some FAQ sections lag behind current release features
Prices & plans
Published prices keep their original currency and billing terms. Taxes, promotions and checkout prices can differ.
Features and practical details
10 features
Documented differences. An unverified answer means we do not have enough evidence.
Platforms
Offline use
GIMP
The desktop workflow opens local images and saves working documents as XCF.
Vendor documentedSource
Export
GIMP
Save preserves the GIMP project as XCF; Export produces delivery formats. XCF does not preserve undo history.
Vendor documentedSource
Project portability
GIMP
Other formats preserve only some project properties, so an exported image is not a full XCF replacement.
Vendor documentedSource
Free plan limits
Use for paid work
GIMP
The project FAQ permits commercial work without restrictions on the kind of work produced.
Vendor documentedSource
Current nondestructive tools
GIMP
GIMP 3.2 adds link and vector layers and expands nondestructive filter workflows.
Vendor documentedSource
Camera RAW
GIMP
The project documents darktable and RawTherapee integration for RAW processing.
Vendor documentedSource
CMYK scope
GIMP
The FAQ describes CMYK import/export through RGB storage and soft proofing rather than a native CMYK editing mode.
Vendor documentedSource
Current release
GIMP
The download page lists GIMP 3.2.6. Older 2.x comparisons do not describe the current feature set.
Vendor documentedSource
| Feature | GIMP |
|---|---|
| Platforms | Official downloads cover GNU/Linux, Windows and macOS. Vendor documentedSource |
| Offline use | The desktop workflow opens local images and saves working documents as XCF. Vendor documentedSource |
| Export | Save preserves the GIMP project as XCF; Export produces delivery formats. XCF does not preserve undo history. Vendor documentedSource |
| Project portability | Other formats preserve only some project properties, so an exported image is not a full XCF replacement. Vendor documentedSource |
| Free plan limits | GIMP is free and open source without a paid editing tier. Vendor documentedSource |
| Use for paid work | The project FAQ permits commercial work without restrictions on the kind of work produced. Vendor documentedSource |
| Current nondestructive tools | GIMP 3.2 adds link and vector layers and expands nondestructive filter workflows. Vendor documentedSource |
| Camera RAW | The project documents darktable and RawTherapee integration for RAW processing. Vendor documentedSource |
| CMYK scope | The FAQ describes CMYK import/export through RGB storage and soft proofing rather than a native CMYK editing mode. Vendor documentedSource |
| Current release | The download page lists GIMP 3.2.6. Older 2.x comparisons do not describe the current feature set. Vendor documentedSource |
Compare the alternatives
GIMP vs Photoshop: choose by files and workflow
Graphic design · Choose GIMP when an open-source desktop workflow fits the job and you can validate the handoff. Choose Photoshop when a specific Adobe capability or client requirement justifies the subscription. Keep GIMP's native XCF archive separate from files exported for other applications.
Inkscape vs GIMP: vector artwork, photo editing and a shared workflow
Graphic design · Begin with Inkscape for scalable paths, lettering and vector artwork. Begin with GIMP for retouching, compositing and pixel-based images. Current GIMP also has vector and linked layers, so a combined workflow can be more useful than treating the applications as mutually exclusive.
Sources for this profile
- GIMP downloads (opens in a new tab)
www.gimp.org
- GIMP user FAQ (opens in a new tab)
www.gimp.org · Some FAQ statements about planned vector layers are stale. Current 3.2 release notes take precedence for those features.
- GIMP official overview (opens in a new tab)
www.gimp.org
- GIMP 3.2 release notes (opens in a new tab)
www.gimp.org