GIMP
GNU Image Manipulation Program, a free cross-platform raster image editor for retouching, composites and original art.
Cross-platform raster editing with colour management and Python and Scheme scripting.
GIMP is the GNU Image Manipulation Program, a free image editor for GNU/Linux, macOS and Windows. It suits designers, photographers and illustrators who want a Photoshop-style raster editor without a subscription and are willing to learn its own interface.
What it is
According to its site, GIMP covers photo retouching and restoring, image composition, original artwork, and producing icons and interface mockups. It has colour management for print and digital work, and can be scripted in C, C++, Python, Scheme and more, with a large catalogue of community plug-ins.
Who it's for
It suits hobbyists, small studios and scientists who want a free editor they can script and extend. It does not suit teams who need cloud collaboration or built-in generative AI, which its site does not describe, and it is raster-only so vector work goes to Inkscape.
Key features
Retouching and restoration
Tools for photo manipulation, repair and creative composites.
Original artwork tools
Painting and image transformation for illustration work.
Colour management
Supports high-fidelity colour reproduction across screen and print.
Scripting in many languages
Automate edits with Python, Scheme, C or C++.
Plug-ins and scripts
Extend it with a large library of community-made add-ons.
Desktop publishing workflow
The site suggests pairing it with Scribus and Inkscape.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Official downloads cover GNU/Linux (AppImage, Flathub, Snap), macOS and Windows
- Free software under the GNU GPL that you can modify and redistribute
- Scripting support makes batch edits and custom filters possible
- Mature colour management for print workflows
Where it falls short
- Its interface differs from commercial editors, so expect a learning curve if you come from Photoshop
- It is a raster editor; the site points to Inkscape for vector work and Scribus for page layout
- The site does not describe built-in generative AI features or cloud collaboration
- Source builds and some distributions require developer-level skill; the Linux AppImage needs Debian 13 or a newer distro
Pricing & license
Free under the GNU General Public License; the site lists a Donate page but no paid plan or hosted version. Your only cost is your own computer.
Open remote AI-training roles
880 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 15, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Is GIMP really free?
Yes. The site describes it as free software you can change and distribute, under the GNU General Public License. The site also accepts donations.
Can I sell work made in GIMP?
The site has an FAQ on legality of selling copies of GIMP itself. For your own images, the GPL governs the program, not your files.
Does GIMP support scripting?
Yes. The site lists Python, Scheme, C and C++ among supported languages.
