GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

It is free of cost. Another amazing thing about it is that it is open-source. It saves money that you would have to spend to buy a subscription. For image editing, there are a variety of interesting tools. Its customizable interface is really fascinating. The thing which made me its biggest fan is that it keeps on updating frequently and always come with latest features that almost meet all users' needs.

Cons

The only drawback is that for beginners the learning curve is quite steep. Some plugins fail compatibility with the latest version. It needs to be more polished.

Pros

As an avid photographer and graphic designer, I've explored various tools over the years, but GIMP consistently impresses me with its robust features and versatility.One of the most striking aspects of GIMP is its extensive toolkit, rivaling even some paid software options. From basic adjustments like cropping and resizing to advanced techniques such as layer masking and non-destructive editing, GIMP offers a comprehensive suite suitable for both amateurs and professionals alike. The ability to extend its functionality through plugins and scripts further enhances its adaptability to diverse creative needs.

Cons

While GIMP offers a wide range of features for image editing and manipulation, it may lack some advanced capabilities found in commercial software. For example, certain advanced retouching tools, content-aware fill, or seamless integration with cloud services may not be as robust or polished in GIMP compared to its commercial counterparts.

Pros

What I like most about GIMP is its incredible flexibility and power as a free, open-source software. The ability to customize the interface to suit my workflow is invaluable, allowing me to arrange tools and panels exactly how I like them. GIMP’s extensive feature set means I can handle everything from simple photo retouching to complex image compositions without needing to invest in expensive software.

Cons

What I like least about GIMP is its steep learning curve. The sheer number of features and options can be overwhelming for new users, making it challenging to navigate and utilize the software effectively without spending significant time learning its intricacies. Additionally, the interface, while customizable, can sometimes feel cluttered and less intuitive compared to more polished, commercial alternatives. This can lead to frustration, especially when trying to perform complex tasks efficiently.

Pros

It's a free software that does pretty much all the things that need to be done in Photoshop. It doesn't demand as much resources from the PC as Photoshop does and it is more compatible with my graphic cards (which is frequently crashing when using Photoshop). Gimp doesn't crash. It has a big community behind it so it is very easy to find help with small issues. Since it is a very integral software there is no need to go outside to solve issues with the projects, everything I need can be done with it.

Cons

It is hard to make the switch if you have been a Photoshop user for years, like me. I work a lot with keyboard shortcuts and they are mostly different, so for me the learning curve was very slow and frustrating. The software is not intuitive either, and the interface is not very pretty.

Pros

Gimp has become my go to program, it has all the robustness of adobe Photoshop and more there has been so many things that I have been able to do.

Cons

I have no complaints with gimp for the last 22 years I have been using gamp almost exclusively. It is able to complete any task that I need and I see no cons with this program

Alternatives Considered

Reasons for Choosing GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Switched From

Reasons for Switching to GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

This is an amazing tool compared to the others on the market. This ran with ease on my PC and didn't cause me any issues. They send out updates and offer tons of documentation. The software is great for beginners or professionals. It runs on macOS and Windows while not requiring too many specs. HIGHLY recommend

Cons

The overall GUI interface feels outdated it could use a modern revamp.

Alternatives Considered

Reasons for Choosing GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Switched From

Reasons for Switching to GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

It allows you to manipulate images in a simple way, giving us a series of editing tools, in addition to handling a series of formats with their respective options, which allows you to generate the image according to your needs.

Cons

There are some actions that become complex to perform, because compared to other software, there are no tools that can be used to perform them.

Pros

...and has been for a long time. GIMP is versatile, user-friendly, and free.
Easily add plugins.

Cons

Some functions feel clunky and could maybe be more intuitive.

Alternatives Considered

Reasons for Switching to GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

GIMP is easy to use and allows me to use so many advanced graphic design techniques. It's a necessary tool for my graphic design side of the business

Cons

I wish some of the add-ons were easier to load, but overall it is terrific!

Pros

For me its just perfect, low costs and high possibilities

Cons

interface can be a little tricky at begining, but in some time it becomes intuitive

Pros

This app is free. We have been using it on and off for some time for the minor graphic design needs we've had for documentation, clinical pamphlets, and labels. It has all the features you need for basic editing. It gets the job done.

Cons

From my needs and experience, it is all manual. There are no automation or AI features like some of the premium options. It's user interface takes some getting used to and is reminiscent of much older products.

Pros

GIMP is free and has most (if not all) the features of paid raster image editing software.

Cons

It can be less intuitive to use than its counterparts.

Alternatives Considered

Reasons for Switching to GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

GIMP does what "theirs" does for free. The interface is easier to navigate than the competing products. Many add-ons are available for free or to purchase reasonably, making it customizable.

Cons

Sometimes processing of multiple changes to large images or multiple layers takes a while to complete, but this is still only seconds.

Pros

With GIMP you can add and customize text within your designs and you can easily remove flaws and enhance details. GIMP has a wide range of tools and incredible features. It is easy to use even for the new employees.

Cons

It lacks some advanced illustrator tools, but all in all it's an amazing software.

Pros

Gimp is a very well made FREE alternative to Photo Shop. I downloaded it to use while I was taking a Photo Shop course, and have used it ever since.

Cons

I really wish the had a CMYK colour option. I'm not good with plug ins and extras. I have to use a different program when I'm creating for print rather than online.

Pros

The aspect that for me stood out the most is that Gimp is an open-source software. Therefore you do not have to pay anything and you get a great software in return.

Cons

If you using Gimp for more specific works, you have to be aware that It lacks a few "important" aspects such as the support for high bit depth images (.hdr, .exr) which is very useful for those of us who work in the 3D industry, and support for CMYK. Photoshop has hundreds if not thousands of additional features and capabilities,

Pros

What I like most about GIMP is that it is a completely free product. It has a wide arrange of effects, options, and settings that truly allow elevate an image.

Cons

What I enjoyed least about GIMP was it's overcomplicated UI and navigation. The problem with GIMP is not that limited tools, it's that effects and tools have to be found. Compared to other photo editors, things are more condensed, modern looking UI, and have a clean appearance. I wish GIMP would update it's interface to be more visually appealing and easily accessibly.

Pros

Usually when you have a free alternative to any program, you expect it to be sub-par, but GIMP is free and perfect for people like me who don't need extensive graphic design tools (though I've heard it's quite good in that regard), but just need a functional form of the basics. I use it primarily for outlining parcels, and editing real estate images. Any local business that does marketing of any kind would benefit from using GIMP -- sometimes pricy programs simply aren't needed, and GIMP is a lifesaver in that regard.

Cons

I do feel like there is a bit of learning curve, one that I've found to be more difficult that paid image editing programs. While shortcuts make things easier for every program, if feels absolutely crucial to know them for GIMP, otherwise each task can feel laborious. I also feel like the UI for browsing for a file is way too out-of-date... I always click and drag from my file explorer.

Pros

It is highly accessible and useful for a variety of projects.

Cons

There is a decent learning curve when you haven't used any comparable editing software.

Pros

Its free, basic, and easy if you are just getting into graphic design.

Cons

Not as many features and some of the tools are not as user friendly. I dont enjoy working with layers on this program as much as similar ones.

Pros

Live migration import/export database for vendor endorsement

Cons

Back up support Analysis Assurance level

Pros

It's virtually identical in form and function to Photoshop, and it's a great way to achieve the same results at virtually no cost.

Cons

GIMP has a steep learning curve, similar to that of Photoshop, which may require some time and effort to master. If you're coming from Photoshop, you will have to relearn tool shortcuts and other functions that are necessary to avoid copyright issues.

Pros

The thing I like most about GIMP is that it has about a zillion and one features that can be implemented. It is a complete replacement for Photoshop for a budget business, and can even be used for almost all image needs if you were to just use one program. GIMP is also open-source which I fully support, and free, but it is so useful, you will want to donate!

Cons

The thing I like most is also the thing I like least... it has a zillion and one options! If you have ever used Blender, it kind of reminds me of the same sort of interface. It can be easy to get lost in all the options, windows, and docks if you aren't a daily user.

Pros

As an avid designer, GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) has been an essential tool in my creative arsenal. The software's extensive range of advanced editing features, including layers, filters, and customizable brushes, allows me to bring my creative vision to life. The intuitive user interface ensures a smooth and seamless editing experience, while the active open-source community is a great source of inspiration and support. With GIMP, I can confidently create professional-quality designs and artwork without breaking the bank.

Cons

Miss some features but for the price its awesome

Pros

How close it was to P. Shop and it was free

Cons

Some learning curve on my behalf with learning layers

Pros

GIMP is entirely free, with no subscription fees, which makes it accessible to everyone.

Cons

The layout and navigation could be improved to feel more user-friendly. For advanced photo editing, GIMP lacks some high-end tools that Photoshop offers.

Pros

It is not expensive. The fact that it is open-source is just another fantastic feature. The money you would have to pay for a subscription is saved. There are many intriguing tools available for image manipulation. Its UI is incredibly interesting to customise. The reason I'm such a big admirer of it is because it updates often and constantly has the newest features, which practically satisfy the needs of any user.

Cons

The learning curve's steepness for novices is the only disadvantage. Certain plugins are incompatible with the most recent version.

Pros

Gimp is a great alternative to Adobe Photoshop! I did use Adobe Photoshop but to renew was expensive. After looking at cheaper alternatives, I went with Gimp. It has every feature that I have needed and I can export to many different file format. I use this in combination with my vector programs and you won't find a better deal with as many features as Gimp. There is also a wide array of tutorials to be found online. If you need a photo editor and don't want to spend alot, this is the program to try.

Cons

It took a little bit to learn some of the features, but you can find numerous videos on how to use different features. It was no worse than learning to use Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator.

Alternatives Considered

Reasons for Choosing GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Switched From

Reasons for Switching to GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

It's free. Neither upfront or monthly fees. I am not aware of an alternative that is free. It allows me to do book covers and graphics for my website. Updates to the software are also free.

Cons

There's quite steep learning curve. Things have moved on since I started and there are now free youtube video classes available when you look up how to do something. Many of those connect with people who offer basic affordable training for less than £20 and I would recommend that.

Pros

The biggest advantage to GIMP is that is that it is free and a worthwhile alternative to Photoshop and illustrator.

Cons

IT can be heavy on the system and so it tends to be slow. Also, if one is not used to the interface, it takes some getting used to work with it.

Pros

Honestly, it all began with "Because it's free!" Who wouldn't want the same cool features as those fancy, pricey image editors? But once I started messing around with it and realized how user-friendly GIMP is, I couldn't imagine switching to more professional tools.

Cons

Yeah, the tool's support might be a bit lacking, but the awesome thing is that it's made up for by the collective knowledge base of a whole community.

Pros

GIMP is a robust image editing tool comparable to the likes of Photoshop (I know the Photoshop fans in the world will grind their teeth at that, but from my perspective it's fact). Full set of features for all the image manipulation I've ever needed, bearing in mind I have not been a graphic designer or anything like that. My needs have always been around internal company marketing, or application design, never a full blown marketing design firm or anything like that.

Cons

Some things are not as intuitive as I'd like, but it is a complex program with a lot of features, therefore it takes some time to learn where everything is and how to get things done, workflows, etc.

Pros

The most obvious thing that I like about GIMP is that it's free. But, despite that it also offers a lot of powerful features like the healing tool, scripts, batch processing etc.

Cons

What did you like least about GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)?*
The user interface feels too old for my taste but I like that it's customizable.

Pros

Gimp is free and allows you to retouch/edit your photos and images, create logos, applying filters and effects, convert in other formats.
The installation is easy, of course you will need to learn how to use the program, as it has a lot of functions.
I suggest to use levels while creating/editing photos or images.
Gimp never hangs

Cons

the zoom suddenly increase or decrease to maximum
if you want to overwrite your jpeg file don't click on save

Pros

Creating a satisfying moment starts with keeping a record of it. GIMP helps me value every second of my life by creating a design element and scripted images. It is quite easy to use and implement. The dashboard will amaze you.

Cons

It requires great attention to master every bit of this tool inorder to build a perfect design. Also, knowledge in at least one programming language is needed for a great design. All thanks to the free trial, it is a great learning experience.

Pros

Gimp is a lot easier to use than some of the other software's that's on the market. You can create many different things and there are tons of videos on how to use the software.

Cons

That you have to dock most of the UI stuff.

Pros

GIMP is an open-source software, it means that is free. The possibility to learn graphic design or at least how to edit pictures more "professionally" using a free software is priceless. Not only it is free, but it also has some very good features: there are loads of image editing tools, very good text tools, a strong layer support.

Cons

Unfortunally the software is not very popular, and of course the outdated interface does not help. The widget layout is a little cluttered, and for a beginner it can be very frustrating. Moreover, the performance in general is very "slow" and sometimes even simple copy and paste operations can cause little glitches. One important malus is the fact that GIMP can't open raw camera files without a third party app - which the user can choose among a very short list. Opening two graphics softwares at the same time is a very heavy task for the computer.
Another important aspect - the thing that makes GIMP aged compared to many softwares that we all have even on our mobile devices- is the fact that it does not have any face recognition. If you want to select an element you have to select it freely or with the use of a tool that recognises the same colour areas, which is not really useful in this case.

Pros

Easy tools and easy correction done on the image.

Cons

Compare to Adobe Photoshop tools are less.

Pros

Being "open source" software is most definitely the biggest pro. From older Ubuntu Linux, where Adobe products could be used, Gimp was the only one to tread those waters and deliver the same, if not better, level of performance.

Cons

I would say, not exactly as a negative thing, that the UI isn't necessarily intuitive and could use a revamp, especially to help less experienced users

Pros

Its ability to fulfil low level editing necessities

Cons

The dashboard, lack of functionality and compatibility with photoshop files (or the ease to import such in the event this is possible).

Pros

If you are used to Photoshop but don't want the hassle of a subscription platform, GIMP is an ideal replacement. It has nearly all of the photo editing features I need. There was a slight learning curve when I first started using, but it was intuitive and easy to learn. Many of the tools look similar to Photoshop. I was encouraged to switch over when the CS6 version I was using was no longer updated by my school district. The overall appearance is a bit different, but it loads faster and meets my needs.

Cons

I am not able to use the actions that I have for Photoshop. It has been difficult to replace these, especially for my portrait edits.

Pros

Great open source/free image editing software

Cons

Great software but not as feature rich as Photoshop. Clunky to use.

Alternatives Considered

Reasons for Switching to GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Pros

I find GIMP perfect for quick image editing operation such as scaling the size or merging multiple layers into a single image. I also find it to be a great solution for compiling and editing pdf files.

Cons

Some features may be too hidden when first approaching the application, and the interface appears not very user friendly

Pros

GIMP is really great for image editing and creating bit maps and texture maps from already created images. The tools offered by GIMP are very useful when designing vector graphics.

Cons

While GIMP is great, it does lack more premium features offered by other graphic design tools.

Pros

It's fully free and it's designed to be quick to learn and use. Missing some settings photoshop has, but overall does the same job or better.

Cons

Missing some of the bigger features of photoshop and the extensions. But in most cases they aren't needed for most needs.

Pros

-Free
-Makes easy programmer art
-Layers are easy to manipulate and understand
-Interesting and nice looking artistic filters

Cons

-Drawing Tools are somewhat counterintuitive, especially lines and pens
-No apparent Vector capabilities
-Not easy to generate sprite sheets
-Resizing canvases can have awkward side effects

Pros

Extremely easy to use with the user interface being simple to find tools you want to use when editing images.

Cons

Its difficult to find something to dislike about a program which is free, however, the only items which isn't ideal is when working with layers, you have to select the layer you wish to save as the image.

Pros

GIMP is free - this is its main advantage over alternatives. You can also use add-ons and plugins to extend its capabilities even further. If you stick with it, you can achieve much the same as you would with paid alternatives.

Cons

The UI/UX is not as intuitive as some paid alternatives, and it can feel like a lot of effort at the start to get used to everything.

Pros

It is unbelievable that this software can do almost what a paid app could do. Photo editing, designing, and cropping are all working perfectly without any issue. It doesn't consume much computer resources. Most importantly, this is totally free!

Cons

It might be a bit confused for beginner, but it is not an issue after learning it. There is almost no support at all.

Pros

Photoshop-like features and ease of use.

Cons

It has many similarities to photoshop but is not quite as flexible