Paint.NET vs GIMP: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Paint.NET and GIMP 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:
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.
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
| At a Glance |  Paint.NET |  GIMP |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Contact us/moWindows Store Purchase | Free |
Best For | Image Editing | Image Editing |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Paint.NET or GIMP?
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
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)
| Feature | Paint.NET | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 39 reviews | ★4.4/5 4,971 reviews |
| Categories | Image EditingGraphic Design | Image EditingGraphic Design |
In-Depth Analysis
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
GIMP
Professional image editing, free and open-source
Strengths
- +Completely free
- +Open source
- +Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- -Dated interface
- -Learning curve
Key features
Pricing: Paint.NET vs GIMP
| Plan | Paint.NET | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free Download | $0 Free |
| Tier 2 | Contact us Windows Store Purchase | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Paint.NET pricing and GIMP 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: Paint.NET
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GIMP
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Paint.NET is freemium. GIMP is free. 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 Paint.NET or GIMP better?
GIMP is rated in our evaluation. Paint.NET is freemium and GIMP is free.
What are Paint.NET and GIMP used for?
Paint.NET: Powerful yet simple image and photo editing software for Windows PCs.. GIMP: Professional image editing, free and open-source.
What does Paint.NET cost vs GIMP?
Paint.NET is freemium (free tier + paid plans). GIMP is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.