SoftNexi

Windows · Graphics & Image Editing

GIMP for Windows

Free, open-source raster image editor with layers, masks, and a plugin system, aimed as a no-cost Photoshop alternative.

Updated August 9, 2026 · Reviewed by SoftNexi Editorial Team, Software research and documentation

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Overview

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source raster editor for photo retouching, compositing, and general image editing. It supports layers, masks, adjustment tools, and a scripting interface (Script-Fu/Python-Fu) that lets users automate repetitive edits.

It is most often compared directly to Photoshop, and while it covers a large share of everyday raster editing tasks — cropping, retouching, layer compositing, filters — its tool names, panel layout, and some workflows differ enough that experienced Photoshop users face a real adjustment period.

GIMP's plugin ecosystem extends it meaningfully: additional file format support, filters, and the G'MIC plugin collection add capability that isn't in the base install. It reads and writes PSD files with reasonable but not perfect fidelity for complex Photoshop-specific features.

It suits anyone who wants a capable, free raster editor and does not require exact Photoshop-plugin compatibility or subscription-tied cloud features. It is not a vector tool (that's Inkscape's job) or a RAW photo processor on its own, though RAW files can be opened via a plugin.

Key features

  • Layer- and mask-based non-destructive-ish editing workflow
  • Selection tools including paths, lasso, and Select by Color
  • Script-Fu and Python-Fu scripting for automation and batch actions
  • Plugin support, including the G'MIC filter collection
  • Reads and writes PSD files alongside its native XCF format
  • Customizable brushes, gradients, and blend modes
  • Single-window mode with a Photoshop-adjacent panel layout option

System requirements

Operating system
Windows 11 and Windows 10 (64-bit)
Architecture
64-bit only

How to install GIMP

  1. 1. Download from the developer

    Go to gimp.org/downloads and choose the Windows installer, not a third-party mirror.

  2. 2. Run setup

    Approve the UAC prompt and complete installation with default options.

  3. 3. Choose single-window mode

    Under Windows > Single-Window Mode, enable this to get a more conventional, Photoshop-like layout.

How to use it

  1. 1. Open or import an image

    Use File > Open to load a photo, or File > Open as Layers to bring multiple images into one project.

  2. 2. Work with layers

    Use the Layers panel to stack, mask, and blend elements; add a layer mask via Layer > Mask > Add Layer Mask for non-destructive edits.

  3. 3. Make selections

    Use the Free Select, Fuzzy Select, or Select by Color tools depending on the subject, then refine edges under Select > Feather.

  4. 4. Apply filters

    Explore the Filters menu, including the G'MIC plugin if installed, for effects like blur, sharpen, and artistic filters.

  5. 5. Export

    Use File > Export As to save as PNG, JPEG, or another common format; File > Save keeps GIMP's native XCF format for further editing.

Safety and privacy

  • We link only to gimp.org, the project's official site; some third-party download portals have historically bundled unwanted extras with GIMP, so always download from the official page.
  • GIMP is open source with publicly reviewable source code.
Bundled software
The installer linked from gimp.org's official page does not bundle third-party offers.
Privacy
GIMP runs entirely locally and does not require an account.

Known risks

  • Third-party plugins and scripts run with the same access as GIMP itself; install them only from sources you trust.
  • PSD compatibility is good but not perfect for advanced Photoshop-specific layer effects, which can shift or flatten on import.

What's new

  • 2.10.x / 3.0 development

    GIMP has been transitioning toward a GTK3-based 3.0 release with updated non-destructive filter handling; check the developer's release notes on gimp.org for the current stable version.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Completely free and open source with no subscription
  • Full layer, mask, and selection toolset
  • Scriptable for batch editing and automation
  • Extensible via plugins including G'MIC
  • Reads and writes PSD files

Cons

  • Interface and terminology differ from Photoshop, with a learning curve for switchers
  • PSD compatibility is not perfect for complex Photoshop-specific effects
  • No built-in RAW processing without an additional plugin
  • Some advanced Photoshop features (e.g., certain smart object workflows) have no direct equivalent

Verdict

GIMP is the most capable free raster editor for Windows, covering the large majority of everyday photo editing and compositing work. Photoshop switchers should expect a genuine adjustment period rather than a drop-in replacement.

Frequently asked questions

Is GIMP free?

Yes, GIMP is free and open source with no paid tier.

Can GIMP open Photoshop PSD files?

Yes, GIMP reads and writes PSD files, though very complex Photoshop-specific layer effects may not translate perfectly.

Is GIMP a replacement for Photoshop?

It covers most everyday raster editing tasks for free, but the interface and some workflows differ enough that it is best thought of as a capable alternative rather than an exact substitute.

Does GIMP support RAW photo files?

Not natively out of the box; RAW files typically need to be opened through a plugin such as the bundled darktable-related import path, or converted first with a dedicated RAW tool like RawTherapee or darktable.