15 best GIMP alternatives and competitors to try in 2025

Looking for a GIMP alternative? Whether you’re a beginner or professional, several easy photo editors can meet your needs. Photopea offers a free browser-based solution, while Krita excels at digital art. For professional work, Affinity Photo stands as a powerful GIMP competitor. Canva simplifies design for social media. Each of these GIMP alternatives brings unique strengths to your creative workflow.

Why Consider GIMP Alternatives in 2025?

While GIMP remains a popular free photo editor, many users seek GIMP alternatives that better suit their needs. In 2025, the market offers numerous easy photo editors that can handle everything from basic touch-ups to professional editing.

Some GIMP competitors focus on simplicity and quick results. Others provide professional-grade features for advanced users. We’ll explore 15 different programs that might fit your workflow better than GIMP. Our detailed comparison covers pricing, features, and ideal use cases for each option.

Professional-Grade Alternatives

Professional photo editors need powerful tools that can handle complex projects with precision. These alternatives offer advanced features like RAW processing, layer-based editing, and professional color management tools. While they may cost more than GIMP, they provide the reliability and performance that professional work demands.

1. Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a powerful tool that doesn’t need a monthly subscription. It offers RAW photo editing with excellent color control options. You can stack multiple photos for super-clear close-ups. The software lets you open and edit Photoshop files without problems. Digital painters will enjoy the many brush options available.

Pros

The software provides professional-grade tools at an affordable one-time price. Its PSD compatibility makes switching from Photoshop easy. The RAW processing engine delivers excellent results. The non-destructive editing workflow helps maintain original image quality. Performance is fast even with large files.

Cons

The learning curve can be steep for beginners. Some advanced features require good computer hardware. The iPad version is sold separately. There’s no automatic cloud backup system. Plugin support is more limited compared to Photoshop.

Pricing

One-time payment of $69.99 includes:

• Full desktop version

• Free updates until next major version

• Available for Windows, Mac, and iPad

• Optional iPad version: $19.99

2. Capture One

Capture One started as a tool for expensive cameras but now works great for all photographers. The software excels at RAW photo editing with better results than most other programs. Its color editing tools are among the best in the industry.

Pros

The colour editing tools are industry-leading. Its RAW processing produces exceptional image quality. The tethered shooting features work flawlessly. The software offers excellent organization tools for large photo collections. The interface is highly customizable.

Cons

The price is higher than most alternatives. Learning the interface takes time. Style packages cost extra. Some features require high-end computer hardware. The file management system can be complex.

Pricing

Two options available:

• Subscription: $299/year

• Perpetual license: $599 (one-time payment) Both include:

• Full feature access

• Updates during subscription period

• Style packs worth $100

3. Krita

Krita is a professional-grade digital painting program that’s completely free and open-source. The software focuses on creating digital art and illustrations. It offers a powerful brush engine with customizable options. Artists particularly appreciate its tablet support and natural drawing feel.

Pros

The brush engine rivals premium software quality. The interface is designed specifically for digital artists. The software receives frequent updates and improvements. The active community provides extensive learning resources. The program works well with drawing tablets.

Cons

Photo editing features are limited compared to GIMP. Some tools can be complex for beginners. Large canvas sizes may affect performance. Documentation can be inconsistent. Plugin selection is smaller than commercial alternatives.

Pricing

Completely free:

• Full feature access

• Regular updates

• Community-driven development

• Optional donations accepted

• Commercial use allowed

4. Photopea

Photopea works entirely in your web browser, offering Photoshop-like features without installation. The software handles PSD files and supports layer-based editing. It’s particularly useful for quick edits and cross-platform work.

Pros

No installation required for use. The interface is familiar to Photoshop users. It works on any operating system with a browser. The free version offers most essential features. File compatibility is excellent.

Cons

Internet connection is required. Complex projects may slow down in browser. Some advanced features are missing. The free version shows ads. Saving work requires manual downloading.

Pricing

Two options:

• Free: Full features with ads

• Premium: $40/year includes:

  • Ad-free experience

  • More formats support

  • Priority support

  • Multi-tab editing

5. Canva

Canva makes creating designs simple for everyone. It focuses on templates and drag-and-drop editing. The software works entirely in your web browser, making it accessible from anywhere with internet.

Pros

The template library is extensive and professional. The interface is very easy to learn. You can create designs quickly without design experience. Team collaboration features work well. The mobile app offers full functionality.

Cons

Advanced photo editing features are limited. You need internet access to use it. Custom designs can look template-like. The free plan has significant limitations. Some premium features require annual payment.

Pricing

Three-tier system:

• Free: Basic features and limited templates

• Pro: $119.99/year or $12.99/month

• Enterprise: Custom pricing for teams Pro includes:

• Brand kit features

• 100+ million stock photos

• Background remover

• 100GB storage

Related: Canva vs Figma: Which Design Tool Should You Use in 2025?

6. Figma

Figma revolutionizes design workflows with real-time collaboration features. While primarily for UI/UX design, it handles general graphic design tasks well. The vector-based system ensures scalable graphics.

Pros

Real-time collaboration works seamlessly. The interface is modern and intuitive. Vector editing tools are powerful. The component system saves time. Cross-platform compatibility is excellent.

Cons

Requires internet connection for most features. Storage limits on free plan. Not focused on photo editing. Learning curve for non-designers. Subscription model only.

Pricing

Three-tier structure:

• Free: Basic features and 3 files

• Professional: $12/month per user

• Organization: $45/month per user Professional includes:

• Unlimited files

• Team libraries

• Advanced sharing

• Custom plugins

7. DxO PhotoLab

DxO PhotoLab specializes in RAW photo processing and automatic corrections. The software uses advanced algorithms for noise reduction and lens corrections. It’s particularly strong in creating clean, professional images.

Pros

The DeepPRIME noise reduction is industry-leading. Lens corrections are highly accurate. The local adjustment tools work well. Color management is precise. The workflow is efficient for photographers.

Cons

No layer-based editing. The interface can feel technical. Hardware requirements are demanding. Limited graphic design features. Price is higher than some alternatives.

Pricing

Two editions:

• Essential: $139

• Elite: $219 Both include:

• Perpetual license

• One year of updates

• Multiple computer use

• Optional add-ons available

8. Luminar Neo

Luminar Neo combines traditional editing with AI-powered tools. The software makes complex edits simple through automation. It suits both beginners and advanced users looking for quick results.

Pros

AI tools produce impressive results quickly. The interface is modern and clean. Portrait enhancement tools work well. Presets help achieve consistent looks. Regular new feature updates.

Cons

AI processing can be slow. Some tools lack fine control. Cloud storage is limited. Plugin ecosystem is still growing. Monthly subscription is relatively expensive.

Pricing

Several options:

• Monthly: $14.99

• Annual: $149

• Lifetime: $299 Features include:

• All AI tools

• Regular updates

• Plugin support

• Cloud storage

9. Paint.NET

Paint.NET offers a balance between simplicity and functionality for Windows users. The software provides essential editing tools in a lightweight package. Its plugin system allows users to expand features as needed.

Pros

The interface is easy to learn and use. Performance is fast on most computers. The plugin system adds powerful features. Updates come regularly. File sizes stay manageable.

Cons

Windows-only availability. Basic tools compared to premium options. Some plugins can be unstable. Limited RAW photo support. No mobile version available.

Pricing

Completely free with optional ways to support:

• Microsoft Store version: $6.99

• Optional donations

• All features included

• Regular updates

• Community support

10. Pixlr

Pixlr provides both web-based and mobile editing solutions. The software focuses on quick edits and social media content creation. Its AI tools help speed up common editing tasks.

Pros

Works on any device with a browser. The mobile app is full-featured. AI tools simplify common tasks. Template library is extensive. Quick edits are easy.

Cons

Advanced features require subscription. Internet connection needed for web version. Large projects can be slow. Export options are limited. Some tools lack precision.

Pricing

Three-tier system:

• Free: Basic editing tools

• Premium: $7.99/month

• Professional: $14.99/month Premium includes:

• Ad-free experience

• AI tools

• Premium stock content

• Advanced tools

11. Inkscape

Inkscape specializes in vector graphics creation and editing. The software offers professional-grade vector tools for free. It works well for logos, illustrations, and technical drawings.

Pros

Professional vector editing tools are included. File compatibility is excellent. The software handles complex designs well. Extensions add powerful features. The price is unbeatable.

Cons

Photo editing capabilities are limited. The interface feels dated. Learning curve is steep. Performance can be slow. Some tools are hard to find.

Pricing

Free and open-source:

• Full vector editing suite

• Regular community updates

• Extension support

• Professional features

• No paid version

12. Darktable

Darktable focuses on RAW photo processing and photo workflow management. The software provides professional-grade tools for photographers. Its non-destructive editing preserves original images.

Pros

RAW processing quality is excellent. The workflow tools are professional-grade. Original photos stay safe. Colour management is precise. The price is free.

Cons

Interface can be overwhelming. Learning curve is significant. Documentation can be technical. Performance depends on hardware. Limited graphic design features.

Pricing

Free and open-source:

• Complete RAW processing

• No paid versions

• Regular updates

• Community-driven

• All features included

13. Snapseed

Snapseed brings professional editing tools to mobile devices. The software combines powerful features with touch-friendly controls. Google’s development ensures regular updates and stability.

Pros

Professional tools on mobile devices. The interface works well with touch. All features are free. Regular updates improve functionality. Precise control over edits.

Cons

Mobile-only availability. No desktop version. Some tools lack depth. File management is basic. No cloud storage included.

Pricing

Completely free:

• All features included

• No in-app purchases

• Regular updates

• Google support

• No ads

14. Procreate

Procreate offers professional digital art tools for iPad users. The software provides desktop-class features in a mobile package. Its brush engine and performance are industry-leading.

Pros

The brush engine is exceptional. Performance matches desktop apps. The interface is touch-optimized. Time-lapse recording is built-in. Updates add significant features.

Cons

iPad-only availability. No Android version. New versions require separate purchase. File compatibility can be limited. Cloud storage not included.

Pricing

One-time purchase:

• $9.99 for iPad version

• No subscription

• Regular feature updates

• New versions may cost extra

• All features included

15. PhotoDirector

PhotoDirector combines photo management with creative editing tools. The software offers AI-powered features and traditional editing tools. It suits both organizers and creative editors.

Pros

Photo management tools work well. AI features simplify editing. The interface is user-friendly. Stock content is included. Regular feature updates arrive.

Cons

Subscription model only. Some tools lack depth. Performance can be inconsistent. Cloud storage is limited. Plugin support is minimal.

Pricing

Multiple options:

• Essential: $69.99/year

• Create: $99.99/year

• Suite: $139.99/year All include:

• Cloud storage

• AI tools

• Regular updates

• Stock content

Tips for Choosing the Right Photo Editor

When switching from GIMP to a new photo editor, several factors can help you choose the perfect alternative. Many easy photo editors offer different strengths, so consider these important points:

• Your main purpose (photos, art, or design work)

• Your budget and preferred payment style

• The features you’ll use most often

• How much time you can spend learning

• Whether it works on your computer or device

• If you need to share files with others

• How often you’ll use the software

• Whether you need mobile access

• If you want to work online or offline

• Your computer’s processing power

Related:

Making the Switch to a GIMP Alternative

Moving to a new photo editor takes time, but many GIMP alternatives offer familiar tools that ease the transition. As you explore different GIMP competitors, here are some helpful tips for a smooth switch:

• Save your ongoing work in multiple formats

• Watch tutorial videos for your new software

• Start with simple projects to learn the basics

• Keep GIMP installed until you’re comfortable with the new tool

• Join online communities for your chosen software

Conclusion

The world of photo editing has evolved significantly, offering numerous GIMP alternatives to suit every need. Each easy photo editor brings unique capabilities, from simple touch-ups to professional-grade features. Understanding these GIMP competitors helps you choose the perfect tool for your creative journey.

Free options like Photopea provide accessible GIMP alternatives for occasional editing. Professional editing tools like Affinity Photo and Capture One offer advanced features for serious work. Many easy photo editors offer free trials, letting you test their capabilities before committing.

Remember that mastering your chosen GIMP alternative takes time, but the right tool will enhance your creative potential. Whether you’re a beginner seeking simplicity or a professional needing advanced features, there’s a perfect photo editor waiting for you. Choose the option that best matches your skills, goals, and workflow needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GIMP still worth using in 2025?

Yes, GIMP remains a solid choice for basic to intermediate photo editing. It offers good functionality for free and works well for users who don’t need advanced features or professional tools.

Which GIMP alternative is best for beginners?

Canva is the most beginner-friendly option. It offers an intuitive interface, helpful templates, and basic editing tools without overwhelming new users with complex features.

Can I use these alternatives without a monthly subscription?

Yes, several options like Affinity Photo, Krita, and Paint.NET offer one-time purchases or are completely free. You don’t need a subscription for quality photo editing.

Do I need a powerful computer for these programs?

Most basic editing tools work on standard computers. However, professional software like Capture One and DxO PhotoLab perform better with more RAM and faster processors.

Can I switch between these programs easily?

Most programs support common file formats like JPG and PNG. However, project files (like PSD) might not work across different software. Export finished work in universal formats.