10 Best GIMP Alternatives in 2024: Best Image Editor

The open-source GIMP raster graphics editor is a powerful and adaptable tool. It is freely accessible for usage on a variety of operating systems, is well known for its accessibility and serves as a potent substitute for fancy image editing software. There are several best GIMP alternatives.

In our article, we’ve listed some great alternatives to GIMP for 2024, each with features to meet your artistic needs. Affinity Photo has a simple interface, while Adobe Photoshop is known for its professional-grade tools. Explore non-destructive editing, advanced features, and seamless integration options to elevate your designs. Here are a few options to consider:

Which is Best Among the 10 Best GIMP Alternatives?

Adobe Photoshop is the best alternative to GIMP, offering a user-friendly interface, extensive features, and seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps

• Adobe Photoshop is a popular alternative to GIMP.
• It’s known for being user-friendly and packed with features.
• Photoshop is favored by both professionals and hobbyists for its ability to edit, retouch, and create stunning images.
• It offers advanced selection tools, layer-based editing, and a wide range of filters and effects.
• Photoshop seamlessly integrates with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
• While it may require a subscription fee, many users find its versatility and capabilities worth the investment.

The Best GIMP Alternatives

Here is the list of 10 Best GIMP alternatives in 2024, we’ve carefully selected the top alternatives to GIMP to suit your image editing needs. For each alternative, we’ve provided detailed features, pros, cons, and pricing information to help you make an informed decision.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is a popular picture editing software that gives you lots of freedom to be creative. It’s part of Adobe’s Creative Cloud, so you can easily use it with other Adobe programs. Whether you’re a professional or just starting out, if you want to edit pictures with precision, Photoshop is a great choice.

If you’re looking for an alternative to Photoshop, you might consider GIMP. GIMP is a competitor to Photoshop and offers many similar features for editing images.

Features

• For exact control over your creations, use sophisticated layer editing features.
• Large collection of brushes, effects, and filters for artistic experimenting.
• Improved process with seamless connectivity with other Adobe’s Creative Cloud apps.

Pros	Cons
Industry-standard software that is utilized by experts throughout the globe. Staying ahead of the curve is ensured with frequent upgrades and new features.	For certain customers, the subscription-based pricing model might be expensive. Steeper learning curve in contrast to other options.

Pricing

• Free trial
• Subscription starting from $19.99/ month.

Link: https://www.adobe-students.com/

2. Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a substitute for adobe photoshop with various tools and non-destructive features. Digital Artists and photographers refer to this because of its simple interface and one payment option.

Features

• Change your pictures without messing up the original.
• Use fancy tools to make your photos look really good.
• Works well with other editing software and can handle lots of different file types, including PSD.

Pros	Cons
It is a one-time purchase that is ultimately cost-effective because there is no subscription required. Even with huge files and intricate adjustments, performance is quick and fast.	Third-party plugins aren’t supported much compared to other similar programs. There aren’t many resources available for learning compared to older, more popular software.

Pricing

• Free Trial
• MacOS and Windows Rs. 4,999 subscription price
• Ipad Rs. 1299 subscription price.

Link: https://affinity.serif.com/

3. Krita

With adjustable brushes and support for animation, Krita is an adaptable digital painting program made for artists. Creatives looking for adaptable and user-friendly tools frequently choose it because of its open-source design and cross-platform compatibility.

Features

• Made with digital artists in mind.
• Brush engines and brushes that are customizable.
• Assistance with storyboarding and animation.

Pros	Cons
An enthusiastic community and open-source software. Accessibility between platform	A complex interface for new users. Large file performance problems.

Pricing

• Free 
• In app purchase available.

4. Corel PaintShop Pro

A great alternative for photographers and graphic designers is Corel PaintShop Pro as it provides picture editing tools which are easy to use. It also provides for flexible workspace and reasonable price making it a great choice.

Features

• Personalized editing experience with an easy-to-use UI and adjustable workspace configurations.
• AI-powered tools for effective and rapid image improvement.
• Extensive collection of textures, gradients, and brushes for artistic creativity.

Pros	Cons
Reasonably priced with a one-time purchase option available. For users of all ability levels, there are plenty of tutorials and learning tools accessible.	Less common than Adobe Photoshop when it comes to professional settings. Some cutting-edge features can be absent when compared to more expensive options.

Pricing

• One time purchase available.

Link: https://www.paintshoppro.com/en/

5. Pixlr

Pixlr is a website where you can edit your pictures easily. It has lots of tools and effects, so you can make quick edits or get creative with your photos. People who love social media and those who enjoy taking photos but aren’t professional photographers like using it because it’s simple to use and has a friendly interface.

Features

• Web based platform and can be accessed from any internet-connected device.
• Simple editing tools for changes and improvements are included in an intuitive UI.
• A large selection of borders, stickers, and overlays to give your photos some style.

Pros	Cons
A free version is offered, and a paid membership is optional for enhanced functionality. It is easy to modify while on the move because it doesn’t need to be installed.	Not as many features as computer programs. Needs internet to work, which can be a problem if the internet is slow or not available.

Pricing

• Free
• Premium subscription starting from $3.99/ month.

Link: https://pixlr.com/

6. PhotoPea

Photopea is an online photo editor that works like desktop software, making it super easy to edit pictures. It’s great for everyone, whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional designer. Plus, it’s compatible with PSD files, making it a solid alternative to GIMP for editing needs on any device.

Features

• A powerful online tool that works with Adobe Photoshop and supports PSD files.
• Offers numerous adjustment layers and filters for versatile editing options.
• Available in multiple languages for users worldwide.

Pros	Cons
No membership needed, and it’s free to use. Continual enhancements and modifications driven by user input.	In comparison to conventional desktop software, the interface could feel crowded. Internet connectivity and browser compatibility might have an impact on performance.

Pricing

• Free

Link: https://www.photopea.com/

7. Inkscape

Inkscape, an open-source vector graphics editor and GIMP competitor, offers designers greater control and flexibility in creating scalable drawings. Its versatile features make it the top choice for precise and adaptable design projects, thanks to its ability to work seamlessly across different platforms.

Features

• Makes pictures that can be resized without losing quality.
• Can be used with other similar programs and supports SVG files.
• Offers a variety of tools for drawing shapes and curves.

Pros	Cons
Open-source software that is developed by a committed community. Cross-platform compatibility—Windows, macOS, and Linux are supported.	For newcomers, vector graphics may have a high learning curve. Performance problems while handling huge files or particularly complicated designs.

Pricing

• Free

Link: https://inkscape.org/

8. Canva

Canva, a well-known online design platform, offers a wide range of templates and easy-to-use tools for creating stunning visuals. It simplifies collaboration and speeds up the design process, making it perfect for both experienced designers and beginners. If you’re looking for GIMP alternatives, Canva is a great option for all your design needs.

Features

• It’s a website where you can easily create designs.
• They have lots of ready-made designs to choose from.
• You can work with others on your designs online.

Pros	Cons
There is a free version accessible and a premium membership that may be purchased for further features. It is great for beginners and non-designers because no design expertise is needed.	Less customizing choices than with software specifically for design. For regular users, premium features may cost more because a membership may be needed.

Pricing

• Free
• Premium starting at $12.95/ month.

Link: https://www.canva.com/pro/

9. Paint.Net

Paint.NET is a user-friendly program that lets you edit images and photos with ease. It’s popular among Windows users because it’s flexible and simple to use. If you’re looking for alternatives to GIMP, Paint.NET is a great option because of its strong features and accessibility.

Features

• Simple interface for beginners and occasional users.
• Additional features available through plugins to tailor the software to your needs.
• Active forums where users exchange advice and troubleshooting tips.

Pros	Cons
No hidden fees and no download or usage required. Program that is light-weight and low system requirements.	Not as advanced as certain functions seen in higher-end applications. File format incompatibility when compared to editors that follow industry standards.

Pricing

• Free

Link: https://www.getpaint.net/

10. Photoscape X

Photoscape X is a great option for editing pictures, offering easy-to-use tools and features for both beginners and experts. With its user-friendly interface and batch processing capabilities, it makes editing and organizing photos a breeze. This program is a top choice among those seeking alternatives to GIMP, providing a smooth editing experience without sacrificing functionality.

Features

• Program for editing, organizing, and sharing photos that is an all-in-one solution.
• The ability to process several photos in bulk for effective batch editing at the same time.
• Presets and templates that are already included for quick and simple photo editing.

Pros	Cons
There is a free version and an optional upgrade path for further functionality. Interface that is easy to use and appropriate for all user levels.	When compared to more expensive options, some sophisticated functions could be restricted. There could be features in the Windows version that are absent from the Mac version.

Pricing 

• Free 
• Premium starting at $39.99/ month.

Link: http://x.photoscape.org/

Conclusion

The vast selection of image editing software given offers alternatives suited for a wide spectrum of users, from beginners to experts. Whether you value cost, extensive capabilities, or user-friendly interfaces, one of these solutions is the best fit for your creative requirements. From industry foundations like Adobe Photoshop to innovative applications like Canva, each software has its own set of strengths and features.

Explore these solutions to help you explore your creativity and improve your digital artistry or picture editing skills. With the correct tools, you can easily accomplish stunning outcomes and bring your unique thoughts to life.

FAQs – 10 Best GIMP Alternatives in 2024: Best Image Editor

Which GIMP replacement is best for beginners? 

Pixlr is an easy-to-use web-based platform with straightforward editing capabilities, ideal for rapid upgrades.

Which option offers powerful retouching features similar to Photoshop? 

Affinity Photo stands out for its strong retouching skills and non-destructive editing tools, which rival those of Photoshop.

Does Canva provide free editing?

Yes, free editing is available but for premium content and editing, subscription plans are available starting from $12.95/ month.