Adobe Photoshop vs GIMP
GIMP is the best free Photoshop alternative for desktop photo editing. Here's how the two compare on features and where each falls short.
Adobe Photoshop
Industry-standard photo editing and graphic design software — $22.99/month.
Visit Adobe PhotoshopGIMP
Free, open-source image editor with advanced features — desktop app for Windows, Mac, Linux.
Visit GIMPFeature Comparison
| Feature | Adobe Photoshop | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $22.99/month | Free (open-source) |
| Layer support | Excellent | Yes — full layer support |
| AI tools | Generative Fill, Neural Filters, Remove Background | Limited — mostly manual tools |
| Non-destructive editing | Yes — adjustment layers, Smart Objects | Limited — some destructive by default |
| Learning resources | Massive — tutorials everywhere | Good but less extensive |
Verdict
GIMP is the best free desktop alternative to Photoshop and handles most common editing tasks. Photoshop leads in AI tools, non-destructive editing, and ecosystem integration. For quick web tasks like background removal, our free browser tool is faster than either.
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Try it freeFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Adobe Photoshop and GIMP?
GIMP is the best free Photoshop alternative for desktop photo editing. Here's how the two compare on features and where each falls short. On the points that matter most: Price — Adobe Photoshop: $22.99/month; GIMP: Free (open-source). Layer support — Adobe Photoshop: Excellent; GIMP: Yes — full layer support. AI tools — Adobe Photoshop: Generative Fill, Neural Filters, Remove Background; GIMP: Limited — mostly manual tools.
Is Adobe Photoshop better than GIMP?
GIMP is the best free desktop alternative to Photoshop and handles most common editing tasks. Photoshop leads in AI tools, non-destructive editing, and ecosystem integration. For quick web tasks like background removal, our free browser tool is faster than either. If you mainly need the core feature without a subscription or signup, Free Background Remover is a free alternative to both.
Is there a free alternative to both Adobe Photoshop and GIMP?
Yes — our Free Background Remover is completely free with no account required.