Pixelmator Pro vs GIMP: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Pixelmator Pro 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.
Bottom line: Pixelmator Pro wins this matchup. Adobe Creative Cloud is our overall Image Editing pick. Canva is our free Image Editing pick. Pick GIMP if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
Pixelmator Pro
Professional image editing for Mac
Best for you if:
- • You want good image editor Mac
GIMP
Professional image editing, free and open-source
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Pixelmator Pro requires payment)
| At a Glance | Pixelmator Pro | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $49.99/once Pixelmator Pro | Free 100% free |
Category | Image Editing Graphic Design | Image Editing Graphic Design |
Rating | 4.6/5 G2 4.4 · Capterra 4.8 139 reviews | 3.7/5 G2 4.3 · Trustpilot 1.9 · SourceForge 4.8 1,575 reviews |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Watch out for | No cloud storage or collaboration features | No cloud storage integration |
Choose Pixelmator Pro or GIMP?
Choose Pixelmator Pro if
- You want good image editor Mac
- You want one-time purchase
Choose GIMP if
- You want a fully free tool (Pixelmator Pro requires payment)
- You want completely free
- You want open source
In-Depth Analysis
Pixelmator Pro
Professional image editing for Mac
Pixelmator Pro's one-time purchase of $49.99 is exceptionally fair and generous, especially considering the professional-grade features and machine learning capabilities.
Watch out
No cloud storage or collaboration features
Strengths
- Pro: Good image editor Mac
- Pro: One-time purchase
- Pro: ML features
- Pro: Good performance
- Pro: Apple integration
Weaknesses
- Con: Mac only
- Con: Less features than Photoshop
- Con: Learning curve
- Con: Plugin ecosystem limited
- Con: Professional limits
Key features
GIMP
Professional image editing, free and open-source
GIMP's pricing is exceptionally generous, as it is entirely free.
Watch out
No cloud storage integration
Strengths
- Pro: Completely free
- Pro: Open source
- Pro: Cross-platform
Weaknesses
- Con: Dated interface
- Con: Learning curve
Key features
Pricing: Pixelmator Pro vs GIMP
| Plan | Pixelmator Pro | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $49.99 once Pixelmator Pro | $0 Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Pixelmator Pro pricing and GIMP pricing.
Key Takeaways
Pixelmator Pro
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 3.7/5
- Our pick for this comparison
GIMP
- Completely free
- Larger review base (1,575 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Pixelmator Pro wins this matchup. Adobe Creative Cloud is our overall Image Editing pick. Canva is our free Image Editing pick. That said, GIMP is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pixelmator Pro or GIMP better in 2026?
Pixelmator Pro wins this matchup. Adobe Creative Cloud is our overall Image Editing pick. Canva is our free Image Editing pick. Pick Pixelmator Pro for image editing workflows (main strength: good image editor Mac). Pick GIMP for image editing workflows (main strength: completely free).
What are Pixelmator Pro and GIMP used for?
Pixelmator Pro: Professional image editing for Mac. GIMP: Professional image editing, free and open-source.
What does Pixelmator Pro cost vs GIMP?
Pixelmator Pro's paid plans start at $49.99/once (Pixelmator Pro). GIMP is free.
What's the main difference between Pixelmator Pro and GIMP?
Pixelmator Pro's main strength: good image editor Mac. GIMP's main strength: completely free.