GIMP
GIMP: A capable free editor for layered work, masking, scripting, and plug-in-based RAW workflows. Ranked #5 of 158 in Photo Editing Software by our editors (8.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free layered editing and extensibility.
At a glance
- Editor score8.7 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree layered editing and extensibility
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- PlatformMulti-platform
- Founded1995
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open-source across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Layers, masks, high-bit-depth processing, and broad format support
- Extensible through plug-ins, scripting, and command-line batch processing
Where it doesn't
- RAW workflows require darktable or RawTherapee plug-ins
- Desktop-focused rather than a cloud-based editing workflow
- Volunteer-community maintenance may not suit buyers seeking a commercial vendor
Our verdict on GIMP
GIMP is a free, open-source desktop application for creating, editing, retouching, and composing images. It is aimed at photographers, artists, designers, and other image creators who need layered editing without a paid license. Its core toolkit includes photo retouching, image composition, digital painting, image conversion, layer groups, layer masks, selection-based masking, and high-bit-depth processing. It runs on GNU/Linux, macOS, and Windows, making it a practical option for users working across major desktop platforms.
The pricing model is straightforward: GIMP is free and open source. The published product details describe no paid tiers, so buyers can access the same core application without choosing between subscription levels or feature packages. That makes it a strong fit for individuals, students, teams with a preference for open-source software, and organizations that want desktop image editing without a recurring license. Buyers who require a commercial support contract or a vendor-managed product relationship may prefer a paid alternative instead.
GIMP’s ecosystem is centered on plug-ins and scripting. It supports common formats including JPEG, PNG, PSD, TIFF, and PDF, while batch processing is available through command-line scripting. RAW image import can be handled through plug-ins for darktable and RawTherapee, giving photographers a path into RAW workflows while adding setup and dependency considerations. The software is maintained by a volunteer community rather than a company or foundation. Choose GIMP for free, extensible editing with layers, masks, and automation; choose another tool if built-in RAW handling, commercial support, or a more managed workflow is the priority.
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GIMP pricing
GIMP fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Platform | Multi-platform |
| RAW photo support | No |
| Layer editing | Yes |
| Masking tools | Yes |
| Batch editing | Yes |
| Cloud sync | Not verified |
| AI retouching | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | gimp.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to GIMP
- Adobe PhotoshopA deep, multi-platform editor for compositing, retouching, RAW work, and AI-assisted edits.9.4
- Adobe LightroomA broad Lightroom workflow for RAW editing, masking, organization, and synchronized access.9.2
- Capture OneA deep choice for professional RAW and tethered workflows, without a free plan.9.0
GIMP vs the competition
- GIMP vs Adobe Photoshop
- GIMP vs Adobe Lightroom
- GIMP vs Capture One
- GIMP vs darktable
- GIMP vs ON1 Photo RAW
- GIMP vs DxO PhotoLab
Compare GIMP with any tool side by side →
Also Ranked In
GIMP is ranked in 7 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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