GIMP vs Adobe Photoshop: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GIMP and Adobe Photoshop 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GIMP
Free image editor
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
Adobe Photoshop
Image editing and compositing
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • World's most powerful image editing software
- • Photo retouching and digital art creation
| At a Glance |  GIMP |  Adobe Photoshop |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Graphic Design | Graphic Design |
Rating | 78/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | GIMP | Adobe Photoshop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 109 |
| Categories | Graphic DesignImage Editing | Graphic DesignImage Editing |
How GIMP and Adobe Photoshop Compare
GIMP
Free image editor
Free · 78/100 score
Adobe Photoshop
Image editing and compositing
Paid · 92/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GIMP is free. Adobe Photoshop is paid.
Go with: GIMP
Want the highest-rated option?
GIMP: 78/100. Adobe Photoshop: 92/100.
Go with: Adobe Photoshop
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Adobe Photoshop
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GIMP is free. Adobe Photoshop is paid. Go with GIMP if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are graphic design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Adobe Photoshop scores higher: 92/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Photoshop
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 78
- More community upvotes (109)
- Our pick for this comparison
GIMP
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Adobe Photoshop (92/100) is our pick. That said, GIMP is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GIMP or Adobe Photoshop better?
Adobe Photoshop scores 92/100 in our evaluation. GIMP is free and Adobe Photoshop is paid.
What are GIMP and Adobe Photoshop used for?
GIMP: Free image editor. Adobe Photoshop: Image editing and compositing.
What does GIMP cost vs Adobe Photoshop?
GIMP is completely free. Adobe Photoshop is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.