GIMP
Free and open-source image editor for photo retouching, graphic design, and raster artwork
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a powerful, free, and open-source raster graphics editor available on macOS, Windows, and Linux. It is widely used for photo retouching, image composition, graphic design, and digital artwork. With support for layers, masks, filters, plugins, and scripting, GIMP provides many of the capabilities found in commercial image editors like Adobe Photoshop, making it one of the most popular free alternatives for creators and hobbyists alike.
Key Features
Advanced Photo Editing with layers, masks, selections, color correction, and retouching tools.
Extensible Plugin System supporting community-developed plugins such as G'MIC for hundreds of additional effects.
Customizable Interface with dockable dialogs, themes, and flexible workspace layouts.
Scripting and Automation through Script-Fu, Python, and other extensions.
Broad File Compatibility including PSD import/export and support for numerous image formats.
Cross-Platform and Open Source backed by decades of community-driven development.
Why Choose GIMP?
GIMP is ideal for users seeking a capable image editor without subscription costs. It offers a deep feature set suitable for photo editing and graphic work while remaining completely free. Although its interface and workflows can require time to learn, it remains one of the most mature and widely adopted open-source creative applications available.
Platform & Compatibility
Architecture
Minimum macOS
macOS Big Sur 11Public Opinion
Curated highlights from Reddit and other communities, not user-submitted reviews.
“A Reddit user recommended GIMP as a free Photoshop alternative, noting that while 'the UI takes some getting used to,' the PhotoGIMP addon makes it feel much more familiar to Photoshop users.”
Reddit: Can anyone recommend a free Photoshop alternative?
“A user comparing Photoshop and GIMP said, 'Gimp is very capable,' adding that although Photoshop offers more features, many users may not actually need them.”
“A professional designer and photographer reported that they 'spend time equally on both Linux and macOS' and found modern GIMP capable enough for much of their workflow.”
“TechRadar concluded that GIMP provides 'pretty much everything seems to be there' in terms of editing tools, describing it as a viable free option for users on tight budgets.”
TechRadar: GIMP (2026) review
“Creative Bloq's evaluation found that GIMP can serve as 'a reasonable substitute' for some professional work, particularly considering its zero cost.”
Creative Bloq: GIMP vs Photoshop – Could you make the switch?
“The same Reddit recommendation cautioned that 'the UI takes some getting used to,' highlighting GIMP's learning curve for new users.”
“TechRadar criticized GIMP's canvas navigation, stating that scrolling around images with a trackpad was 'practically impossible' during testing.”
“The TechRadar reviewer also noted the absence of modern conveniences such as automated background removal tools found in competing editors.”
“A Reddit discussion criticizing comparisons with Photoshop argued that people often overlook 'features that GIMP lacks' when recommending it as a direct replacement.”
“Creative Bloq concluded that the more the reviewer relied on GIMP for professional deadlines, 'the more head-banging issues I have encountered.'”
Community
Similar Apps & Comparisons
Inkscape
Free and open-source vector graphics editor for creating illustrations, icons, and SVG designs
Krita
Free and open-source digital painting and illustration studio for artists, animators, and comic creators
