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Adobe Photoshop vs GIMP

Not sure which of these tools fits your work? Compare Adobe Photoshop and GIMP to see what you can do with each, what you'll pay and what to check before you choose.

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Check if these tools match how you work. Confirm the plans, limits and renewal prices with each provider before you choose.

Compare features and pricing for Adobe Photoshop, GIMP
What matters to youAdobe PhotoshopGIMP
Best suited to
  • Designers
  • Designers
Starting priceFrom $20.99Free
CategoryDesign SoftwareDesign Software
Ratings shown4.8 / 5 (20,000 reviews shown)4.6 / 5 (9,000 reviews shown)
Features to compare
  • Layers
  • Filters
  • AI Tools
  • Layered image editing and masks
  • Retouching and creative composites
  • Scripts, plugins, and customization
Strengths
  • Offers detailed control over revisions
  • Useful for complex visual briefs
  • Keeps separate design elements editable
  • Free and open-source application
  • Offers detailed image-editing control
  • Can form part of a wider creative workflow
Considerations
  • Advanced work takes practice
  • Subscription and tool access need checking
  • Generated edits can misrepresent visual details
  • Detailed tools take time to learn
  • Plugins require compatibility and trust checks
  • Not a replacement for every vector or layout task

Before you decide

  1. Which tool fits the way you work?
  2. What will it cost you now and when you renew?
  3. Can you try it on a real task before you choose?

Questions you may have when comparing Adobe Photoshop and GIMP

What's different about Adobe Photoshop and GIMP?

Adobe Photoshop lists Layers, Filters and AI Tools. GIMP lists Layered image editing and masks, Retouching and creative composites and Scripts, plugins, and customization. Start with the features you would actually use, then check which plan includes them. A shorter feature list doesn't necessarily mean a tool can't do something you need.

Which one will cost me less?

Compare the total for your team, not just the starting price. Check the billing period, currency, number of users, usage limits and renewal rate, then add any extras you need. If you try a free plan or trial, check what happens when you reach its limits.

How do I choose between Adobe Photoshop and GIMP?

Pick a task you do often and try it in both tools. See which feels easier to use and works with the tools you already rely on. Before you pay, check the plan limits and whether you can get the support you need.