Whether you need a Mac-compatible GIMP alternative, a free photo editor, or the best open-source solution, these choices cover everything from digital painting to AI background removal for e-commerce.
GIMP is a free and open-source image editor. Many people use it as an alternative to Photoshop because it supports layers, masks, filters, and plugins, and runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac systems.
Can GIMP replace Photoshop? The answer is yes. Whether for basic editing or advanced processing, GIMP is more than capable. However, compared to modern tools, its interface design is considered by some users to be slightly outdated and lacking in polish. Precisely for this reason, many are beginning to seek alternatives.
Next, we'll explore some popular GIMP alternatives and analyze which one is best suited for you.
Although GIMP is powerful and versatile, its complex interface or limited advanced features compared to professional software may not suit all users. This is when alternatives to GIMP become necessary.
1. Krita – Best GIMP Alternative for Digital Painting
Krita is an excellent open-source GIMP alternative created with artists in mind. It’s particularly strong for digital painting, illustration, and concept art.
If you’re an artist looking for a free GIMP alternative with a focus on painting rather than photo editing, Krita is an outstanding choice.
2. Paint.NET – Lightweight GIMP Alternative for Windows
Paint.NET started as a student project and evolved into a popular photo editor. While simpler than GIMP, it offers enough features for casual editing.
It’s lightweight, fast, and perfect for users who find GIMP too complex.
3. Affinity Photo – Professional GIMP Alternative
Affinity Photo is a paid but affordable option often considered one of the best GIMP alternatives for professional use.
A strong GIMP alternative, Mac users especially appreciate for its speed and advanced tools.
4. UltraPic – AI-Powered GIMP Alternative for Background Editing
UltraPic is a modern GIMP alternative that focuses on AI background removal and background generation. It’s designed for speed and convenience, making it ideal for e-commerce stores and businesses that need polished product photos.
If you need a GIMP alternative free to start with, and especially for creating clean product shots, UltraPic delivers fast, high-quality results without complicated editing skills.
Instantly remove any background and generate custom backdrops with AI. Boost conversions effortlessly.
5. Pixlr – Online GIMP Alternative Free to Use
If you prefer not to download software, Pixlr is an excellent browser-based choice. It offers two versions: Pixlr X (beginner-friendly) and Pixlr E (advanced editing).
It’s a free GIMP alternative available online, no installation needed.
6. Photopea – Browser-Based GIMP Alternative Open Source Style
Photopea is a powerful web app that feels very similar to Photoshop. It supports PSD files and advanced layer editing.
As a GIMP alternative open source style, it works seamlessly in the browser and supports professional file formats.
1. What is the best free GIMP alternative?
Krita and Paint.NET are among the best free GIMP alternatives. Krita is great for painting and illustration, while Paint.NET is perfect for beginners who just need basic photo editing.
2. Is there a GIMP alternative for Mac users?
Yes! Affinity Photo, Krita, and Photopea are excellent GIMP alternatives for Mac. UltraPic and Pixlr also work perfectly on Mac since they are web-based.
3. Which GIMP alternative is best for e-commerce product photos?
UltraPic is one of the best choices for e-commerce because it specializes in AI background removal and background generation, which is perfect for online product listings.
4. What's the best open-source alternative?
Krita and GIMP itself are both top open-source choices. If you enjoy painting, go with Krita.
Choosing the right GIMP alternative depends on your editing style and goals. For digital painting, Krita stands out as the best open-source GIMP replacement. Beginners may prefer Paint.NET or Pixlr. Professionals might lean toward Affinity Photo for its advanced tools. If you need a Photoshop-like editor accessible in your browser, Photopea is the perfect choice.