GIMP vs Krita: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GIMP and Krita comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GIMP
Professional image editing, free and open-source
Best for you if:
- • You need image editing features specifically
- • GIMP is a free and open-source image editor that rivals Photoshop in capabilities
- • It provides photo retouching, image composition, and graphic design tools
Krita
Free digital painting and illustration software
Best for you if:
- • You need graphic design features specifically
- • Krita is a free digital painting program for illustrators and concept artists
- • It provides professional-grade brushes, layers, and animation tools
| At a Glance |  GIMP |  Krita |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | Image Editing | Graphic Design |
Rating | - | - |
Choose GIMP or Krita?
Choose GIMP if
Professional image editing, free and open-source
- Completely free
- Open source
- Cross-platform
- Your work is image editing-shaped, not graphic design-shaped
Choose Krita if
Free digital painting and illustration software
- Free digital painting
- Professional brushes
- Animation support
- Your work is graphic design-shaped, not image editing-shaped
| Feature | GIMP | Krita |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 4,971 reviews | ★4.4/5 143 reviews |
| Categories | Image EditingGraphic Design | Graphic DesignUI/UX Design |
In-Depth Analysis
GIMP
Professional image editing, free and open-source
Strengths
- +Completely free
- +Open source
- +Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- -Dated interface
- -Learning curve
Key features
Krita
Free digital painting and illustration software
Strengths
- +Free digital painting
- +Professional brushes
- +Animation support
- +Cross-platform
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Not for photo editing
- -Resource heavy
- -Learning curve
- -UI overwhelming
- -Tablet issues sometimes
Key features
Pricing: GIMP vs Krita
| Plan | GIMP | Krita |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GIMP pricing and Krita pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: GIMP
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GIMP
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Krita
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
GIMP is a image editing tool. Krita is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Krita
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
GIMP
- Larger review base (4,971 reviews)
- Better fit for image editing
The Bottom Line
Krita is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GIMP or Krita better?
Krita is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are GIMP and Krita used for?
GIMP: Professional image editing, free and open-source. Krita: Free digital painting and illustration software.
What does GIMP cost vs Krita?
GIMP is completely free. Krita is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.