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About GIMP

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source image editor for Windows, macOS and Linux. It is used for photo retouching, image composition, graphic design and digital painting, and is the best-known free alternative to Adobe Photoshop.

Main features:

  • Layers, layer groups and masks for complex compositions
  • Curves, levels, colour balance and other colour-correction tools
  • Powerful selection tools, including paths, foreground select and fuzzy select
  • Retouching tools: healing, clone, perspective clone and blur/sharpen
  • A large set of filters and effects
  • Non-destructive filters and a modernised interface since GIMP 3
  • Opens and saves many formats, including PSD, PNG, JPEG, TIFF, WebP and its own XCF
  • Extendable with plug-ins and scripts (Python, Script-Fu)

GIMP is completely free, with no subscription, and runs on Windows, macOS and Linux.

Key features

Layers & masksBuild complex compositions
Colour toolsCurves, levels and colour balance
SelectionsPaths, foreground select and fuzzy select
RetouchingHealing, clone and perspective clone
Non-destructive filtersEdit effects later (GIMP 3)
Plug-ins & scriptsExtend with Python and Script-Fu
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License and price

License type
Free · open source

System requirements

Operating system
Windows, macOS, Linux

Good and keep in mind

Good

  • Completely free alternative to Photoshop
  • Powerful layers, selections and retouching
  • Runs on Windows, Mac and Linux

Keep in mind

  • Interface and workflow differ from Photoshop, so there is a learning curve
  • CMYK and some professional print features are limited

Frequently asked questions

Is GIMP free?
Yes. GIMP is completely free and open source, with no subscription or time limit.
Is GIMP a good alternative to Photoshop?
Yes. GIMP is the best-known free alternative to Photoshop, with layers, masks, selections, retouching tools and filters.
Can GIMP open Photoshop PSD files?
Yes. GIMP can open PSD files, including their layers, although some advanced Photoshop features may not be preserved.
What operating systems does GIMP support?
GIMP runs on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Where can I download GIMP safely?
Download it from the official GIMP website using the link on this page.

Other free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop

AffinityProfessional photo editing and design · Windows, macOSFree (Canva account required)KritaDigital painting and illustration · Windows, macOS, LinuxFree · open sourcePhotopeaQuick edits and PSD files · Web browserFree with adsPaint.NETSimple everyday edits · WindowsFree
GUIDEBest Free Alternatives to PhotoshopAffinity, GIMP, Krita, Photopea and Paint.NET compared: free photo editors for retouching, drawing and quick edits, with pros and cons.