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# GIMP vs PhotoWorks Comparison - What are their main differences?

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GIMPPhotoWorks[+ Add Product](#)

Reviews

**GIMP** [

4.3/5(1,484)

](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews#reviews)

**PhotoWorks** [

4.3/5(99)

](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews#reviews)

Pricing

**GIMP**
No pricing available

**PhotoWorks**
No pricing available

**Pricing Insights**
from reviews

Time to Implement

**GIMP**
2 months

Based on 81 responses

**PhotoWorks**
Not enough reviews yet

Return on Investment

**GIMP**
7 months

Based on 71 responses

**PhotoWorks**
Not enough reviews yet

Perceived Cost

**GIMP**
$$$$$

**PhotoWorks**
$$$$$

Average Discount

**GIMP**
18%

**PhotoWorks**
Not enough reviews yet

Pros & Cons

**GIMP**
[
Free Services (12)
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1760614&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Ease of Use (11)
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1760654&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Learning Curve (11)
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1760579&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Limitations (4)
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1760414&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)

**PhotoWorks**
[
Ease of Use (7)
](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1099576&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Efficiency (6)
](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1099375&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Slow Performance (4)
](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1099348&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[
Expensive (3)
](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=2392821&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)

Integrations

**GIMP**
[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_0d6021e1f6253f85ed0eb22a67eb101b/adobe-photoshop.png "Product Avatar Image")

Photoshop

](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews)[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_6112c138e20f80a02a073469ac6e865c/blender.gif "Product Avatar Image")

Blender

](https://www.g2.com/products/blender/reviews)[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_77d7429c23569c5165fdc429d10c2644/canva.png "Product Avatar Image")

Canva

](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews)[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_0ebb966d70992e2e13848f1f2b8e64fa/dall-e.jpg "Product Avatar Image")

DALL·E

](https://www.g2.com/products/dall-e/reviews)[
View all
](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/integrations)

**PhotoWorks**
Not enough data

Screenshots

**GIMP**
 ![GIMP screenshot](https://images.g2crowd.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=600,height=600,fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,/https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/attachment/file/37179/GIMP_screenshot2.png)

**PhotoWorks**
 ![PhotoWorks screenshot](https://images.g2crowd.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=600,height=600,fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,/https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/attachment/file/124308/1-preview.jpg)

Ratings

Meets Requirements

**GIMP**

8.6

8.61,299

**PhotoWorks**

8.6

8.663

Ease of Use

**GIMP**

7.5

7.51,305

**PhotoWorks**

9.1

9.163

Ease of Setup

**GIMP**

8.7

8.7168

**PhotoWorks**

9.4

9.422

Ease of Admin

**GIMP**

8.4

8.4126

**PhotoWorks**
Not enough data

Quality of Support

**GIMP**

7.5

7.5903

**PhotoWorks**

8.6

8.650

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?

**GIMP**

8.5

8.5106

**PhotoWorks**
Not enough data

Product Direction (% positive)

**GIMP**

7.7

7.71,273

**PhotoWorks**

8.5

8.554

Features

Photo Editing[Hide 35 FeaturesShow 35 Features](javascript:void(0);)

6.7

48

8.5

17

Generative AI

AI Text-to-Image

6.8

40

9.1(won by 2.3)

16

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

AI Text-to-3D

6.0

34

8.6(won by 2.6)

13

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Photos/Images

Not enough data

Not enough data

Generative AI

Not enough data

Not enough data

Agentic AI - Photo Editing

Cross-system Integration

7.4

15

7.7(won by 0.3)

5

Additional Functionality

File Conversion

Not enough data

Not enough data

Image Editing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real Time Editing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Social Sharing

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Animations & Transitions

Not enough data

Not enough data

Watermarking

Not enough data

Not enough data

User Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Presentation Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

AI Copilot

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Sharing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Multiple Output Formats

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customizable Templates

Not enough data

Not enough data

Task Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Image Library

Not enough data

Not enough data

Collaboration Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

Batch Processing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Project Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

API

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Sharing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Import/Export

Not enough data

Not enough data

Drag & Drop

Not enough data

Not enough data

Pre-built Templates

Not enough data

Not enough data

Preview Functionality

Not enough data

Not enough data

Search/Filter

Not enough data

Not enough data

Image Protection

Not enough data

Not enough data

Media Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Alerts/Notifications

Not enough data

Not enough data

Activity Dashboard

Not enough data

Not enough data

Show 1 feature category with incomplete data

Graphic Design[Hide 36 FeaturesShow 36 Features](javascript:void(0);)

Not enough data

Not enough data

Additional Functionality

Data Visualization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Mobile App

Not enough data

Not enough data

AI Copilot

Not enough data

Not enough data

Commenting/Notes

Not enough data

Not enough data

Text Editing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Custom Brushes

Not enough data

Not enough data

Generative AI

Not enough data

Not enough data

Watermarking

Not enough data

Not enough data

Engagement Tracking

Not enough data

Not enough data

Pattern, Color & Art Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

Version Control

Not enough data

Not enough data

API

Not enough data

Not enough data

Third-Party Integrations

Not enough data

Not enough data

Collaboration Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

Design Templates

Not enough data

Not enough data

Search/Filter

Not enough data

Not enough data

Secure Data Storage

Not enough data

Not enough data

Workflow Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Storage Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Interactive Content

Not enough data

Not enough data

Drag & Drop Editor

Not enough data

Not enough data

Video Editing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Preview Functionality

Not enough data

Not enough data

Multi-Language

Not enough data

Not enough data

Image Editing

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Import/Export

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customizable Branding

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

CAD Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Library

Not enough data

Not enough data

Custom Fonts

Not enough data

Not enough data

3D Digital Asset Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Design Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Presentation Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

Social Media Integration

Not enough data

Not enough data

Print Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

User Insights

Reviewers' Company Size

[![GIMP](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_c1ef7dba448cecec96775ad06eb16ca8/gimp.png "GIMP")](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews)

GIMP

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

68.2%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

20.9%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

10.9%

[![PhotoWorks](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_8667bb510bacd3d35fb2953d1d5bbb92/photoworks.png "PhotoWorks")](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews)

PhotoWorks

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

71.1%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

22.2%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

6.7%

Small-Business

(50 or fewer emp.)

68.2%

71.1%

Mid-Market

(51-1000 emp.)

20.9%

22.2%

Enterprise

(\> 1000 emp.)

10.9%

6.7%

Reviewers' Industry

[![GIMP](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_c1ef7dba448cecec96775ad06eb16ca8/gimp.png "GIMP")](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews)
GIMP

Design

9.1%

Computer Software

7.8%

Information Technology and Services

5.7%

Graphic Design

5.5%

Marketing and Advertising

5.3%

Other

66.6%

[![PhotoWorks](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_8667bb510bacd3d35fb2953d1d5bbb92/photoworks.png "PhotoWorks")](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews)
PhotoWorks

Design

8.0%

Higher Education

6.8%

Photography

6.8%

Graphic Design

5.7%

Information Technology and Services

4.5%

Other

68.2%

FAQs

## GIMP vs PhotoWorks FAQs

Generated using AI

Last updated: August 15, 2026

### What is the difference between GIMP vs PhotoWorks?

GIMP and PhotoWorks both score 4.3/5 on G2, but GIMP is free and open-source with a steeper learning curve, while PhotoWorks is praised for its ease of use and AI-powered features.

| [GIMP](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews) | [PhotoWorks](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews) |
| --- | --- |
| 4.3/5 (1,485 reviews) | 4.3/5 (99 reviews) |
| Small-Business | Small-Business |
| 8.7 | 9.4 |
| 7.5 | 8.6 |
| Free Services (12 all-time mentions) | Ease of Use (9 all-time mentions) |

### How do the pricing models of GIMP and PhotoWorks compare?

PhotoWorks is rated higher for value, with reviewers more satisfied with its pricing model than GIMP.

- **GIMP:** Reviewers consistently highlight GIMP as a free, open-source solution that eliminates the need for paid subscriptions, making it highly attractive for cost-conscious users.
- **PhotoWorks:** Reviewers praise PhotoWorks for its one-time purchase model and value for money, noting that it delivers professional results without ongoing fees and is preferred over monthly subscription models.
- **Switching reasons:** Many reviewers switch to GIMP to avoid expensive subscriptions, while PhotoWorks is chosen for its affordable one-time payment and ease of use.

### What are the best alternatives to GIMP and PhotoWorks?

Photoshop, Canva, and Adobe Photoshop Lightroom are the top three alternatives to GIMP and PhotoWorks.

| Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [GIMP](https://www.g2.com/products/gimp/reviews) | 4.3/5 (1,485 reviews) | Small-Business | Free, open-source, no subscription | Free Services (12 all-time mentions) |
| [PhotoWorks](https://www.g2.com/products/photoworks/reviews) | 4.3/5 (99 reviews) | Small-Business | One-time purchase, affordable | Ease of Use (9 all-time mentions) |
| [Photoshop](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews) | 4.6/5 (13,409 reviews) | Small-Business | Subscription-based, premium pricing | Industry-standard editing power |
| [Canva](https://www.g2.com/products/canva/reviews) | 4.7/5 (7,660 reviews) | Small-Business | Free and paid plans available | Ease of use and templates |
| [Adobe Photoshop Lightroom](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-photoshop-lightroom/reviews) | 4.6/5 (3,299 reviews) | Small-Business | Subscription-based | Photo organization and batch editing |

### Which Photo Editing features should I prioritize when comparing GIMP and PhotoWorks?

Buyers comparing GIMP and PhotoWorks should prioritize ease of use, AI-powered editing, batch processing, layer/masking capabilities, and support for advanced features.

- **Ease of Use:** GIMP 7.5, PhotoWorks 9.1; PhotoWorks is consistently praised for its intuitive interface (9 all-time mentions).
- **AI-Powered Editing:** PhotoWorks is frequently cited for its AI tools and automatic enhancements (2 all-time mentions); GIMP does not have this as a core theme.
- **Batch Processing:** PhotoWorks reviewers highlight batch editing and efficiency (8 all-time mentions); GIMP reviewers mention efficiency (9 all-time mentions) but less focus on batch workflows.
- **Layer/Masking Capabilities:** GIMP is noted for robust layer-based editing and flexibility (10 all-time mentions for features); PhotoWorks is cited for simpler masking but lacks advanced layer support.
- **Advanced Features:** GIMP is recognized for its extensive feature set and plugin support (10 all-time mentions); PhotoWorks is noted for limitations in advanced editing capabilities (2 all-time mentions).

### What are the pros and cons of GIMP vs PhotoWorks?

GIMP's headline strength is its free, open-source model with robust features, while PhotoWorks stands out for ease of use and AI-powered editing.

- **GIMP strengths:** Free Services (12 all-time mentions), Features (10), Efficiency (9), Versatility (4), Digital Art (5), Affordable (3).
- **GIMP trade-offs:** Learning Curve (11), Slow Performance (4), Limited Features (3), Poor Navigation (3).
- **PhotoWorks strengths:** Ease of Use (9), Efficiency (8), AI Tools (2), Background Removal (2), Filters (3), Intuitive (3), Affordable (1).
- **PhotoWorks trade-offs:** Slow Performance (5), Expensive (3), Limited Editing Capabilities (2), System Instability (2), Limited Features (2).

### Is GIMP or PhotoWorks better for small businesses?

PhotoWorks is the better fit for small businesses, with higher ease-of-use and setup scores and strong small-business reviewer sentiment.

- **GIMP:** Largest segment is Small-Business; reviewers highlight its free cost and flexibility but note a steeper learning curve and more complex workflows.
- **PhotoWorks:** Largest segment is Small-Business; reviewers consistently praise its intuitive interface, fast setup, and time-saving AI features, making it highly suitable for small business needs.

### Which Photo Editing platform has better integrations?

GIMP is favored for integrations, with more reviewer-cited third-party tool connections than PhotoWorks.

- **GIMP:** Integrates with Adobe Photoshop (160 all-time mentions), Python (14), and Canva (8), with reviewers noting smooth integration with automation and social media platforms.
- **PhotoWorks:** Reviewers mention integration challenges and do not cite specific third-party integrations in recent reviews.

### How do GIMP and PhotoWorks compare on customer support?

PhotoWorks leads on Quality of Support with a 1.1-point advantage over GIMP (8.6 vs 7.5).

- **GIMP:** Reviewers describe support as responsive but sometimes limited, with scores ranging from 2.0 to 7.0 and occasional mentions of slow updates or lack of polish.
- **PhotoWorks:** Reviewers consistently rate support highly, citing fast responses, helpful tutorials, and effective onboarding, with multiple reviews scoring support at 7.0.

### Which is easier to implement, GIMP or PhotoWorks?

PhotoWorks is easier to implement, with a 0.7-point higher Ease of Setup score (9.4 vs 8.7).

- **GIMP:** Reviewers describe setup as straightforward but note a learning curve for mastering the interface and advanced features.
- **PhotoWorks:** Reviewers consistently highlight fast installation, easy onboarding, and minimal training required, with many stating they were able to start editing within minutes.

Alternatives

**GIMP Alternatives**

 ![Adobe Photoshop](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/30c9f0e49d9f66a2e51fbb889f0a74e7/adobe-photoshop.svg "Adobe Photoshop")

[
Photoshop
](/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews)

 ![Canva](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/020885d89318f0483f6222194b3ee8ff/canva.svg "Canva")

[
Canva
](/products/canva/reviews)

 ![Adobe Photoshop Lightroom](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/9564ba120f5c03c806b95f934cfb3ec2/adobe-photoshop-lightroom.svg "Adobe Photoshop Lightroom")

[
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
](/products/adobe-photoshop-lightroom/reviews)

 ![Photoshop Elements](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/e8f77dbb61f08ce0a35a81a4205d4a28/photoshop-elements.svg "Photoshop Elements")

[
Photoshop Elements
](/products/photoshop-elements/reviews)

**PhotoWorks Alternatives**

 ![Adobe Photoshop](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/30c9f0e49d9f66a2e51fbb889f0a74e7/adobe-photoshop.svg "Adobe Photoshop")

[
Photoshop
](/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews)

 ![Luminar Neo](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_74418aef0c411b72a21f6e043d566f71/luminar-neo.png "Luminar Neo")

[
Luminar Neo
](/products/luminar-neo/reviews)

 ![Photoshop Elements](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/e8f77dbb61f08ce0a35a81a4205d4a28/photoshop-elements.svg "Photoshop Elements")

[
Photoshop Elements
](/products/photoshop-elements/reviews)

 ![Adobe Photoshop Lightroom](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/9564ba120f5c03c806b95f934cfb3ec2/adobe-photoshop-lightroom.svg "Adobe Photoshop Lightroom")

[
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
](/products/adobe-photoshop-lightroom/reviews)