GIMP vs Photoshop: Key Differences (2024)

FAQs

GIMP vs Photoshop: Key Differences? ›

Gimp, compared to Photoshop, has less powerful tools. It can't work with RAW files, process vector images, and support the CMYK color range. In this context, the competition between GIMP vs. Photoshop wins the second one.

Cons of GIMP

This may result in a steeper learning curve for users who are transitioning from other software or who are new to image editing. Less polished interface: while GIMP's interface is customizable, some users may find it less polished and user-friendly compared to commercial alternatives like Photoshop.

Since Photoshop has way more professional features than GIMP, that's why Photoshop is considered better software for professional purposes. But if you want basic editing software that can be used for beginner-level editing then go for GIMP software.

On the downside, GIMP is notorious for having a steep learning curve. I have not used Photoshop much, so I will not indulge into extravagant claims here, but yes, though I love GIMP, I must admit that I find its user interface to be confusing for a new user.

GIMP is a versatile program used for a variety of tasks, including photo manipulation, image editing and digital painting. Photoshop is a powerful and feature-rich program designed for digital imaging and graphic design.

In short, Adobe Photoshop is a top choice for professionals because it has lots of advanced tools. It's great for detailed editing work that experts like photographers and designers need. GIMP is easier for beginners and people who don't edit photos too much. It's free and works well on less powerful computers.

Disadvantages of using GIMP

It contains limited third-party plugins compare to photoshop. GIMP does not perform well if you need to edit big images with lots of layers.

Both programs have great tools to help you edit your images properly and efficiently. But the tools in Photoshop are much more powerful than the GIMP equivalents. Both programs use adjutments like Curves, Levels and Masks. But real pixel manipulation is stronger in Photoshop.

While Photoshop is regarded as the premier application among professionals, the casual photographer's subscription fee can be expensive. Affinity Photo and Gimp are both more cost-effective options that still provide professional-level editing capabilities.

Other important factors to consider when researching alternatives to GIMP include user interface and features. We have compiled a list of solutions that reviewers voted as the best overall alternatives and competitors to GIMP, including Adobe Photoshop, Canva, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, and Photoshop Elements.

Is there anything better than Photoshop? ›

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a professional, open-source photography powerhouse that works on Linux, Windows, and macOS. So, it's both the best Adobe Photoshop alternative overall, and an excellent free alternative, too.

Is GIMP Safe To Use? Yes, GIMP is completely safe to use if you download it from a legit and safe source. GIMP is not a virus or malware.

It can be used as a simple paint program, an expert quality photo retouching program, an online batch processing system, a mass production image renderer, an image format converter, etc. GIMP is expandable and extensible. It is designed to be augmented with plug-ins and extensions to do just about anything.

But I started using Photoshop when I got into photography school and immediately discovered how limited GIMP truly is. One absolutely HUGE feature missing in GIMP is to be able to do color adjustment in layers. This means you can (for example) adjust contrast in one layer, and then brightness in another.

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a professional, open-source photography powerhouse that works on Linux, Windows, and macOS. So, it's both the best Adobe Photoshop alternative overall, and an excellent free alternative, too.

GIMP is a robust and versatile open-source raster graphics editor. Serving as a powerful alternative to commercial image editing software, GIMP is renowned for its accessibility, as it is freely available for use on various operating systems.