GIMP vs Paint.NET: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GIMP and Paint.NET 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 something completely free
- • GIMP is a free and open-source image editor that rivals Photoshop in capabilities
- • It provides photo retouching, image composition, and graphic design tools
Paint.NET
Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
Best for you if:
- • Free image and photo editing software for Windows.
- • Features layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and powerful tools.
| At a Glance |  GIMP |  Paint.NET |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Contact us/moWindows Store Purchase |
Best For | Image Editing | Image Editing |
Rating | - | - |
Choose GIMP or Paint.NET?
Choose GIMP if
Professional image editing, free and open-source
- Completely free
- Open source
- Cross-platform
- You want a fully free tool (Paint.NET requires payment)
Choose Paint.NET if
Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
- Free to download and use (with optional paid version on Microsoft Store)
- Fast performance and optimized for modern hardware
- User-friendly interface, easy to learn
| Feature | GIMP | Paint.NET |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 4,971 reviews | ★4.7/5 39 reviews |
| Categories | Image EditingGraphic Design | Image EditingGraphic 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
Paint.NET
Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.
Strengths
- +Free to download and use (with optional paid version on Microsoft Store)
- +Fast performance and optimized for modern hardware
- +User-friendly interface, easy to learn
- +Includes advanced features like layers and color management
- +Active online community with tutorials and plugins
Weaknesses
- -Only available for Windows PCs
- -Some advanced features might require plugins
- -Not as feature-rich as professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop
Key features
Pricing: GIMP vs Paint.NET
| Plan | GIMP | Paint.NET |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Free Download |
| Tier 2 | N/A | Contact us Windows Store Purchase |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GIMP pricing and Paint.NET pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GIMP is free. Paint.NET is freemium.
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: GIMP
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GIMP is free. Paint.NET is freemium. Go with GIMP if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are image editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
GIMP
- Larger review base (4,971 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Paint.NET
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.4/5
The Bottom Line
GIMP is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GIMP or Paint.NET better?
GIMP is rated in our evaluation. GIMP is free and Paint.NET is freemium.
What are GIMP and Paint.NET used for?
GIMP: Professional image editing, free and open-source. Paint.NET: Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs..
What does GIMP cost vs Paint.NET?
GIMP is completely free. Paint.NET is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.