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Alternatives to GIMP

GIMP is a free, open-source image editor. If you need industry-standard professional workflows or focus on painting, these alternatives may suit you.

GIMP icon

GIMP

Windows • macOS • Linux Open Source

Best suited for: Free photo editing and retouching on Windows, macOS and Linux.

Platform

Licence

2 of 2 alternatives

  1. Adobe Photoshop

    Industry-standard option

    Best for: Professional photo and design work in studios

    Platforms
    Windows • macOS • iPhone & iPad
    Licence
    Paid

    Why consider Adobe Photoshop?

    Consider Photoshop if you need compatibility with professional workflows and Adobe's ecosystem, including its AI-assisted editing tools.

    Key differences

    • Adobe Creative Cloud integration
    • AI-assisted editing tools
    • Widely used in design studios

    Consideration: Subscription only, and not available on Linux.

  2. Krita icon

    Krita

    Best for digital painting

    Best for: Illustration and digital painting

    Platforms
    Windows • macOS • Linux • Android
    Licence
    Open Source

    Why consider Krita?

    Consider Krita if you mostly paint or draw rather than retouch photos.

    Key differences

    • Built for painting
    • Drawing-tablet support
    • Free and open source

    Consideration: Not designed for photo retouching.

Open-source alternatives to GIMP

Alternatives by platform

Related guides

GIMP alternatives FAQ

What are the alternatives to GIMP?

Alternatives listed on Aptorise include Adobe Photoshop and Krita. Each suits different needs; see "Best for" on each one.

Are there open-source alternatives to GIMP?

Yes: Krita is open source.

Is there a GIMP alternative for Android?

GIMP isn't available for Android. Krita is.

Is there a GIMP alternative for iPhone & iPad?

GIMP isn't available for iPhone & iPad. Adobe Photoshop is.

Is Adobe Photoshop an alternative to GIMP?

Yes, particularly for professional photo and design work in studios. Consider Photoshop if you need compatibility with professional workflows and Adobe's ecosystem, including its AI-assisted editing tools.

Is Krita an alternative to GIMP?

Yes, particularly for illustration and digital painting. Consider Krita if you mostly paint or draw rather than retouch photos.