What is GIMP?

GIMP, short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, is a free and open source raster image editor available for Windows, macOS and Linux. It is used for photo retouching and restoration, image composition, and general graphic design work, and includes scripting support through Python and Script-Fu (Scheme) for automating repetitive tasks. GIMP 3.0, released in 2025 and built on GTK 3, brought better tablet support, HiDPI scaling and native Wayland support on Linux, with 3.2 following in 2026.

As community-developed open source software distributed under the GPL license, GIMP has no purchase price or subscription tiers and no company support line, relying instead on community documentation, forums and plugin ecosystems such as G'MIC for extended functionality.

Key Features of GIMP

Here are the powerful features that make GIMP stand out from the competition. Packed with innovative tools and advanced functionalities, this software offers a range of benefits.

  • Photo retouching, restoration and composition tools
  • Customizable brush engine and paint tools
  • Scripting support via Python and Script-Fu (Scheme)
  • Extensive third-party plugin ecosystem
  • Layers, channels and masks
  • ICC color management for print and digital work
  • Non-destructive GEGL-based editing operations
  • Native Wayland and HiDPI display support (GIMP 3.0+)

GIMP Pricing

Here are the pricing plans for GIMP. Choose the plan that best fits your requirements and budget.

GIMP

Free

Unlimited

Free and open source under the GNU GPL license, no paid tiers

GIMP Specifications

Get a closer look at the technical specifications and system requirements for GIMP. Find out if it's compatible with your operating system and other software.

Software Tagline :
Free and open source cross-platform image editor
Deployment :
  • cloud based
Subscription Plan :
onetime
Desktop Platforms :
  • windows
  • macos
Mobile Platforms :
Language Support :
english
Target Audience :
  • freelancers
  • startups
  • smes
Available Support :
Integrations :
Python and Script-Fu scripting, G'MIC filter plugin, PSD/XCF/TIFF/PNG/JPEG file support
Product Url :
API Available :
No
Free Trial Available :
No
Run On Mobile Browser :
No
Free Plan Available :
Yes
Customization Available :
Yes

GIMP Videos

GIMP Screenshots

Overall GIMP Reviews

Here's our unbiased review of GIMP. Discover how our team of experts rates its features, ease of use, customer support, and other aspects that contribute to its overall appeal.

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GIMP Pros and Cons

GIMP FAQs

Yes, GIMP is completely free and open source software licensed under the GNU General Public License, with no paid tiers or subscriptions.

GIMP runs on Windows, macOS and Linux/Unix systems.

Yes, GIMP can open and export PSD files, though some advanced Photoshop-specific features may not translate perfectly.

Yes, GIMP supports scripting through Python and its native Script-Fu (Scheme) language for automating batch tasks.

GIMP 3.0 moved to the GTK 3 toolkit, adding better tablet input support, HiDPI display scaling, and native Wayland support on Linux.