GIMP review
A capable free editor for layered work, masking, scripting, and plug-in-based RAW workflows.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
GIMP pros and cons
- 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
GIMP fact sheet, pricing and score →
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