Adobe Photoshop vs GIMP
A side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right tool in 2026. Both are Design / Photo & Image Editing tools.
Adobe Photoshop and GIMP both compete in the Design / Photo & Image Editing space. Free open-source image editor. Professional photo editing. Adobe Photoshop is paid while GIMP is free, so budget often tips the decision.
Adobe Photoshop
Industry-standard raster graphics editor for photo editing, compositing, digital painting, and graphic design. Professional-grade tools for image manipulation, retouching, and creative design work.
vs GIMP
GIMP
Free and open-source raster graphics editor for image retouching, editing, drawing, and format conversion. Cross-platform alternative to commercial photo editing software with extensive plugin support.
vs Adobe Photoshop
How Adobe Photoshop and GIMP differ
GIMP as an alternative to Adobe Photoshop
Free open-source image editor
Completely free with extensive features for photo editing. Cross-platform, large plugin ecosystem. Best free alternative.
Adobe Photoshop as an alternative to GIMP
Professional photo editing
Industry standard with advanced features, AI tools, and cloud storage. Better for professional designers and photographers.
Pricing comparison
At a glance
Alternatives to both Adobe Photoshop and GIMP
Tools curated as alternatives to both options — worth a look if neither is right for you.
Canva
Online graphic design platform with drag-and-drop templates for social media, presentations, posters, and more.
Procreate
Professional-grade digital illustration app exclusively for iPad. Features hundreds of brushes, advanced layering, animation tools, and a streamlined interface for digital artists and illustrators.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between Adobe Photoshop and GIMP?
Completely free with extensive features for photo editing. Cross-platform, large plugin ecosystem. Best free alternative.
Is Adobe Photoshop cheaper than GIMP?
Adobe Photoshop is paid, while GIMP is free. Check each tool's website for current pricing details and tier limits.
Which is better, Adobe Photoshop or GIMP?
Neither is universally "better" — it depends on your team's needs. Adobe Photoshop is known for free open-source image editor. GIMP is known for professional photo editing.
Can Adobe Photoshop replace GIMP?
Adobe Photoshop can replace GIMP for many teams. Free open-source image editor However, the right fit depends on which features your workflow relies on.
Which has more alternatives, Adobe Photoshop or GIMP?
Adobe Photoshop has more tracked alternatives (5) than GIMP (3). Browse the full alternatives page for each tool to see the lineup.
Are Adobe Photoshop and GIMP both Design tools?
Yes — both Adobe Photoshop and GIMP are categorized as Design and Photo & Image Editing tools, which is why they show up as alternatives to one another. Their feature emphasis and pricing differ, so the right fit depends on your workflow.
What are good alternatives to both Adobe Photoshop and GIMP?
Tools curated as alternatives to both include Canva, Procreate. See the "Alternatives to both" section above.