[Home](https://www.selecthub.com/) \> [Photo Editing Software](https://www.selecthub.com/c/photo-editing-software/) \> GIMP Categories: * [Photo Editing Software](https://www.selecthub.com/c/photo-editing-software/) * [...](#) ## What Is GIMP? **Industry Specialties:** Graphic Design, Photography, Illustration, Science, Publishing. GIMP, an acronym for GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a versatile software designed for tasks such as photo retouching, image composition, and image authoring. It is particularly well-suited for graphic designers, photographers, and illustrators who require a robust tool for creating and editing images. Industries such as advertising, publishing, and web design often benefit from its capabilities. GIMP offers unique advantages, including its open-source nature, which allows for extensive customization and community-driven enhancements. Notable features include advanced photo retouching tools, customizable brushes, and support for various file formats. Users appreciate its powerful layer management and comprehensive color adjustment options. Compared to similar products, GIMP is praised for its cost-effectiveness, as it is available for free, making it accessible to individuals and small businesses with limited budgets. For specific pricing details or tailored solutions, users are encouraged to contact SelectHub for a personalized quote. PRICE $ $ $ $ $ COMPANY SIZE S M L DEPLOYMENT PLATFORM [ Try Before You Buy. Request a Free Demo Today! Request Demo It's completely free! ](https://pmo.selecthub.com/get-product-demo/?category=Photo+Editing+Software&product%5Fname=GIMP&origin%5Furl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.selecthub.com%2Fp%2Fphoto-editing-software%2Fgimp%2F&product%5Flogo=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.selecthub.com%2Fproducts%2Fabdcaa8e62fa9a0e2e86a0564d11bde4-c3de7b4cb3e68402955868b0e2cddb6f%2Fresources%2Fnormal%2Flogo.webp%3F1725471667) User Sentiment i ![User satisfaction level icon: great]() Based on 5034 reviews: Add your rating: ![Screenshots]() Product Screenshots and Videos ## #3 GIMP is ranked #3 in the Photo Editing Software product directory based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report. [ Get the Report Now](https://pmo.selecthub.com/request-custom-scorecard?category%5Fslug=photo-editing-software&product%5Fslug=gimp&slug=gimp&product%5Fname=GIMP&category=Photo+Editing+Software&origin%5Furl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.selecthub.com%2Fp%2Fphoto-editing-software%2Fgimp%2F) ## GIMP Pricing Based on our most recent analysis, GIMP pricing starts at $0 (Free, Open-Source). [Get Price Quote](https://pmo.selecthub.com/get-product-pricing/?category=Photo+Editing+Software&product%5Fname=GIMP&origin%5Furl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.selecthub.com%2Fp%2Fphoto-editing-software%2Fgimp%2F&product%5Flogo=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.selecthub.com%2Fproducts%2Fabdcaa8e62fa9a0e2e86a0564d11bde4-c3de7b4cb3e68402955868b0e2cddb6f%2Fresources%2Fnormal%2Flogo.webp%3F1725471667&price=1) Price $ $ $ $ $ i Starting From $0 Pricing Model Free, Open-Source Free Trial Yes ([Request for Free](https://pmo.selecthub.com/free-trial/?product%5Fname=GIMP&category=Photo+Editing+Software&product%5Flogo=https://cdn.selecthub.com/products/abdcaa8e62fa9a0e2e86a0564d11bde4-c3de7b4cb3e68402955868b0e2cddb6f/resources/normal/logo.webp?1725471667)) ## Training Resources GIMP is supported with the following types of training: Documentation In Person Live Online Videos Webinars ## Support The following support services are available for GIMP: Email Phone Chat FAQ Forum Help Desk Knowledge Base Tickets Training 24/7 Live Support ## GIMP Benefits and Insights Why use GIMP? ### Key differentiators & advantages of GIMP * **Cost-Effective:** GIMP is free and open-source, eliminating the need for expensive software licenses. * **Customizable Interface:** Users can tailor the interface to their workflow, enhancing productivity and comfort. * **Extensive Plugin Support:** A wide range of plugins extends GIMP's functionality, allowing for specialized tasks like advanced photo retouching and animation. * **Cross-Platform Compatibility:** GIMP runs on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring accessibility for diverse user bases. * **High-Quality Image Manipulation:** GIMP offers advanced tools for tasks such as photo retouching, image composition, and image authoring, rivaling professional-grade software. * **Active Community Support:** A robust community of users and developers provides extensive tutorials, forums, and documentation, facilitating learning and troubleshooting. * **Regular Updates:** Frequent updates ensure that GIMP stays current with new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. * **Non-Destructive Editing:** Layer-based editing allows for non-destructive changes, preserving the original image data and enabling easy adjustments. * **Wide File Format Support:** GIMP supports numerous file formats, including JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and PSD, ensuring compatibility with various projects and software. * **Advanced Color Management:** GIMP's color management tools ensure accurate color reproduction, crucial for professional-grade printing and digital media. * **Scriptable Interface:** Users can automate repetitive tasks using scripting languages like Python, enhancing efficiency and consistency in workflows. * **Scalability:** GIMP handles large image files and complex compositions efficiently, making it suitable for both small and large-scale projects. * **Resource Efficiency:** GIMP is lightweight and runs smoothly on less powerful hardware, making it accessible to users with varying system capabilities. * **Educational Value:** As an open-source tool, GIMP provides an excellent learning platform for students and hobbyists to understand image editing fundamentals without financial barriers. ### Industry Expertise GIMP is a powerful image editor that is best suited for individuals who need a free and open-source alternative to commercial software like Photoshop. It is particularly well-suited for graphic designers, photographers, and illustrators who require a wide range of tools for image manipulation, retouching, and creative work. GIMP's extensive customization options and plugin support make it a versatile tool for professionals and hobbyists alike. ## GIMP Reviews Based on our most recent analysis, GIMP reviews indicate a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 87% based on 5034 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites. ![User satisfaction level icon: great]() 5034 reviews 87% of users would recommend this product ### Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews Based on an aggregate of GIMP reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst. #### Pros * **Cost-Effective:** As a free and open-source software, GIMP eliminates the financial barrier for businesses, especially smaller ones with budget constraints. * **Feature-Rich:** GIMP offers a comprehensive set of tools comparable to paid software, including layers, masks, and advanced filters, enabling professional-level image editing. * **Versatile Applications:** From photo retouching and resizing to creating graphics and web elements, GIMP's versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of business needs. #### Cons * **Steep Learning Curve:** GIMP's interface can be challenging for new users to learn, demanding an investment of time to become proficient. * **Limited Professional Features:** GIMP lacks some advanced features essential for professional workflows, such as CMYK color support, hindering its use in print production. * **Outdated Interface:** Compared to modern image editors, GIMP's interface can feel clunky and less intuitive, potentially slowing down workflows. #### Researcher's Summary: Is GIMP all it's cracked up to be? User reviews from the last year paint a mixed picture of GIMP, a free and open-source image editor. While lauded as a cost-effective alternative to paid software like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP grapples with criticisms regarding its user interface and missing features. Users praise GIMP's robust functionality, likening it to Photoshop in its ability to handle complex editing tasks. The software's open-source nature is a major draw, allowing for customization and community-driven development. However, GIMP's interface is a recurring pain point. Users describe it as "unintuitive" and "ugly," with some struggling to navigate its floating windows and unconventional layout. This steep learning curve can be a deterrent for beginners. Furthermore, GIMP lacks certain advanced features found in Photoshop, such as native RAW file editing, which necessitates relying on external plugins. In essence, GIMP is best suited for budget-conscious users or hobbyists willing to invest time in mastering its intricacies. It's a powerful tool in the right hands, but those seeking a more streamlined and feature-rich experience might find Photoshop a worthwhile investment. ## Key Features Notable GIMP features include: * **Customizable Interface:** GIMP allows users to customize the layout and functionality of the interface to suit their workflow, including docking and undocking panels. * **Photo Enhancement:** Tools such as corrective mode, perspective transformation, and channel mixing help enhance and correct photos with precision. * **Digital Retouching:** The clone tool, healing tool, and perspective clone tool are designed for advanced retouching and restoration tasks. * **Support for Various File Formats:** GIMP supports a wide range of file formats including JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and PSD, ensuring compatibility with other software. * **Extensive Plugin Support:** Users can extend GIMP’s functionality with a variety of plugins, including those for animation, filters, and effects. * **Advanced Manipulation:** Features like layer masks, bezier curves, and gradient editing provide powerful tools for complex image manipulation. * **Color Management:** GIMP supports color profiles and color management workflows, ensuring accurate color representation for print and digital media. * **Script-Fu and Python-Fu:** Automation and scripting capabilities allow users to create custom scripts for repetitive tasks, enhancing productivity. * **Path Tools:** The path tool allows for the creation of complex selections and vector-based paths, useful for detailed editing and design work. * **Text Tools:** GIMP includes robust text tools that support advanced typography, including text along a path and text-to-selection features. * **Brush Dynamics:** Users can customize brush dynamics to control size, opacity, and other parameters based on pressure, velocity, and other factors. * **Layer Management:** GIMP supports multiple layers and layer groups, allowing for non-destructive editing and complex compositions. * **GEGL Integration:** The Generic Graphics Library (GEGL) integration provides high-bit depth processing and non-destructive editing capabilities. * **Resource Management:** GIMP includes tools for managing resources such as brushes, gradients, and patterns, making it easier to organize and access them. * **Open Source:** As an open-source software, GIMP is free to use and modify, with a large community contributing to its development and support. ## Compare Photo Editing Software These are the top products most often compared. Generating Scorecard... Compare to GIMP You can choose 4 products to compare [ Photoshop ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/photoshop/) [ ON1 Photo RAW ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/on1-photo-raw/) [ PhotoDirector 365 ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/photodirector-365/) [ Lightroom ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/lightroom/) [ PaintShop Pro ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/paintshop-pro/) [ ACDSee Photo Studio ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/acdsee-photo-studio/) [ Capture One Pro ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/capture-one-pro/) [ Luminar Neo ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/luminar-neo/) [ Photoroom ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/photoroom/) [ Affinity Photo ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/affinity-photo/) Generating Scorecard... Compare to GIMP ## Head-to-Head Comparison ![GIMP Software Tool]() vs * [ACDSee Photo Studio](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-acdsee-photo-studio/) * [Affinity Photo](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-affinity-photo/) * [AfterShoot](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-aftershoot/) * [Apple Photos](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-apple-photos/) * [BeFunky](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-befunky/) * [Capture One Pro](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-capture-one-pro/) * [CorelDRAW](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-coreldraw/) * [DxO PhotoLab](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-dxo-photolab/) * [Fotor](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-fotor/) * [Lightroom](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-lightroom/) * [Luminar Neo](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-luminar-neo/) * [Movavi Photo Editor](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-movavi-photo-editor/) * [ON1 Photo RAW](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-on1-photo-raw/) * [PaintShop Pro](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-paintshop-pro/) * [PhotoDirector 365](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-photodirector-365/) * [Photoroom](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-photoroom/) * [Photoshop](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/photoshop-vs-gimp/) * [Photoshop Elements](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-photoshop-elements/) * [Photoshop Express](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-photoshop-express/) * [PhotoWorks](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-photoworks/) * [PicMonkey](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-picmonkey/) * [Pixlr](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/pixlr-vs-gimp/) * [Pixlr Editor](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-pixlr-editor/) * [Polarr](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-polarr/) * [Ribbet](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-ribbet/) * [Sirv](https://www.selecthub.com/photo-editing-software/gimp-vs-sirv/) ## Similar Products Here are the most similar products to GIMP. [ Lightroom ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/lightroom/) [ Photoshop ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/photoshop/) [ Ribbet ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/ribbet/) [ Photoshop Express ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/photoshop-express/) [ Apple Photos ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/apple-photos/) [ Photoroom ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/photoroom/) [ Pixlr Editor ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/pixlr-editor/) [ BeFunky ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/befunky/) [ PicMonkey ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/picmonkey/) [ Fotor ](https://www.selecthub.com/p/photo-editing-software/fotor/) Your review has been submitted and should be visible within 24 hours. Review Title Pros Cons Overall feedback Your name Your job title Industry [ Choose your main industry](javascript:void%28%29) * [Accounting / CPA](javascript:void%28%29) * [Advertising](javascript:void%28%29) * [Aerospace & Defense](javascript:void%28%29) * [Agriculture](javascript:void%28%29) * [Apparel](javascript:void%28%29) * [Architecture](javascript:void%28%29) * [Auto Dealership](javascript:void%28%29) * [Automotive](javascript:void%28%29) * [Banking & Financial Services](javascript:void%28%29) * [Banking & Mortgage](javascript:void%28%29) * [Chemicals](javascript:void%28%29) * [Construction & Engineering](javascript:void%28%29) * [Construction / Contracting](javascript:void%28%29) * [Consulting](javascript:void%28%29) * [Consumer Products](javascript:void%28%29) * [Distribution](javascript:void%28%29) * [E-commerce](javascript:void%28%29) * [Education](javascript:void%28%29) * [Electronics](javascript:void%28%29) * [Energy & Utilities](javascript:void%28%29) * [Federal Government](javascript:void%28%29) * [Field Maintenance](javascript:void%28%29) * [Food & Beverage](javascript:void%28%29) * [Healthcare / Social Services](javascript:void%28%29) * [Hospitality / Gaming / Travel](javascript:void%28%29) * [Human Resources](javascript:void%28%29) * [Industrial Machinery](javascript:void%28%29) * [Information Technology & High Tech](javascript:void%28%29) * [Insurance](javascript:void%28%29) * [Legal](javascript:void%28%29) * [Maintenance / Field Service](javascript:void%28%29) * [Manufacturing](javascript:void%28%29) * [Marketing Services](javascript:void%28%29) * [Media & Communications / Entertainment](javascript:void%28%29) * [Mill Products](javascript:void%28%29) * [Mining / Metals](javascript:void%28%29) * [Mortgage](javascript:void%28%29) * [Non-Profit](javascript:void%28%29) * [Not Available](javascript:void%28%29) * [Oil & Gas](javascript:void%28%29) * [Other](javascript:void%28%29) * [Other Services](javascript:void%28%29) * [Payroll Provider](javascript:void%28%29) * [Pharmaceuticals](javascript:void%28%29) * [Professional Employer Organization](javascript:void%28%29) * [Professional Services](javascript:void%28%29) * [Property Management](javascript:void%28%29) * [Public Sector](javascript:void%28%29) * [Real Estate](javascript:void%28%29) * [Recruiting Agency](javascript:void%28%29) * [Religious Institutions](javascript:void%28%29) * [Retail](javascript:void%28%29) * [Sales & Marketing](javascript:void%28%29) * [Semiconductors](javascript:void%28%29) * [Software / IT](javascript:void%28%29) * [Sports and Recreation](javascript:void%28%29) * [Staffing Agency](javascript:void%28%29) * [State & Local Government](javascript:void%28%29) * [Telecommunications](javascript:void%28%29) * [Third-Party Administrator](javascript:void%28%29) * [Transportation & Logistics](javascript:void%28%29) * [Wholesale Distribution](javascript:void%28%29) Company Size [ Choose your company size](javascript:void%28%29) * [1 employee](javascript:void%28%29) * [2 to 9 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [10 - 19 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [20 - 49 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [50 - 99 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [100 - 499 employee](javascript:void%28%29) * [500 - 999 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [1,000 - 2,499 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [2,500 - 4,999 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [5,000 - 9,999 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [10,000 - 24,999 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [25,000 - 49,999 employees](javascript:void%28%29) * [50,000 + employees](javascript:void%28%29) ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.selecthub.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Photo Editing Software", "item": "https://www.selecthub.com/c/photo-editing-software/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "GIMP" } ] } { "@context": "http://schema.org", "@type": "SoftwareApplication", "name": "GIMP", "description": " GIMP, an acronym for GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a versatile software designed for tasks such as photo retouching, image composition, and image authoring. It is particularly well-suited for graphic designers, photographers, and illustrators who require a robust tool for creating and editing images. Industries such as advertising, publishing, and web design often benefit from its capabilities. GIMP offers unique advantages, including its open-source nature, which allows for extensive customization and community-driven enhancements. Notable features include advanced photo retouching tools, customizable brushes, and support for various file formats. Users appreciate its powerful layer management and comprehensive color adjustment options. Compared to similar products, GIMP is praised for its cost-effectiveness, as it is available for free, making it accessible to individuals and small businesses with limited budgets. For specific pricing details or tailored solutions, users are encouraged to contact SelectHub for a personalized quote. ", "review": { "@type": "Review","reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": 60, "bestRating": 100 }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Ashita Ahuja", "reviewBody": "Is GIMP all it's cracked up to be? User reviews from the last year paint a mixed picture of GIMP, a free and open-source image editor. While lauded as a cost-effective alternative to paid software like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP grapples with criticisms regarding its user interface and missing features. Users praise GIMP's robust functionality, likening it to Photoshop in its ability to handle complex editing tasks. The software's open-source nature is a major draw, allowing for customization and community-driven development. However, GIMP's interface is a recurring pain point. Users describe it as \"unintuitive\" and \"ugly,\" with some struggling to navigate its floating windows and unconventional layout. This steep learning curve can be a deterrent for beginners. Furthermore, GIMP lacks certain advanced features found in Photoshop, such as native RAW file editing, which necessitates relying on external plugins. In essence, GIMP is best suited for budget-conscious users or hobbyists willing to invest time in mastering its intricacies. It's a powerful tool in the right hands, but those seeking a more streamlined and feature-rich experience might find Photoshop a worthwhile investment." } }, "image": "https://cdn.selecthub.com/products/abdcaa8e62fa9a0e2e86a0564d11bde4-c3de7b4cb3e68402955868b0e2cddb6f/resources/normal/logo.webp?1725471667", "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "87", "bestRating": "100", "worstRating": "1", "ratingCount": "5034" }, "offers": { "@type": "Offer", "priceSpecification": { "@type": "priceSpecification", "price": "0", "priceCurrency": "USD" } }, "positiveNotes": { "@type": "ItemList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Cost-Effective: As a free and open-source software, GIMP eliminates the financial barrier for businesses, especially smaller ones with budget constraints." }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Feature-Rich: GIMP offers a comprehensive set of tools comparable to paid software, including layers, masks, and advanced filters, enabling professional-level image editing." }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Versatile Applications: From photo retouching and resizing to creating graphics and web elements, GIMP's versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of business needs." } ] }, "negativeNotes": { "@type": "ItemList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Steep Learning Curve: GIMP's interface can be challenging for new users to learn, demanding an investment of time to become proficient." }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Limited Professional Features: GIMP lacks some advanced features essential for professional workflows, such as CMYK color support, hindering its use in print production." }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Outdated Interface: Compared to modern image editors, GIMP's interface can feel clunky and less intuitive, potentially slowing down workflows." } ] }, "applicationCategory": "Photo Editing Software" } ```