GIMP, the GNU Image Manipulation Program, has been around since 1995. It is free, open source and maintained by volunteers. Version 3.0, released in March 2025 after years of work, modernised the interface and added non-destructive editing of filters.
What GIMP is for
Retouching a photo, cutting out an object, correcting colours, building a composition with layers, preparing an image for the web or for print. GIMP also opens Photoshop PSD files, with some limits on the newest effects.
Who is it for?
Bloggers, students and non-profits who need real retouching software without paying for a subscription. Photoshop users will have to learn new shortcuts, but the concepts are the same.
Download GIMP safely
Get it from gimp.org, which also points to the Microsoft Store version and the Flatpak package for Linux. Avoid any “GIMP Pro” sold elsewhere: there is no paid version.
