GIMP vs Inkscape

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Are you hesitating what software is better – GIMP vs Inkscape? Continue reading to get answers on your questions.

GIMP is an open-source powerful image editing software. It is being eyed as one of the top free open source tools for this very purpose. 

Inkscape is an open source graphical user interface that allows the user to draw simple vector illustrations and generate complex visual content like animations, 3D objects and many more.

Final Verdict:

If to compare GIMP with Inkscape, it is more popular and advanced program. It has a number of benefits over the other free image editing tools available on the internet, such as: basic features like layers, brush tool, size fill and stroke effects. The tool palette of GIMP is quite extensive, with features such as Brush Strokes, Dictionary, Link, Radial Gradient, Magic Mask, Layer Tree and many more.

GIMP is the winner >

GIMP Features:

  • Graphic design capabilities
  • Digital retouching
  • Customizable UI
  • Different file formats
  • Photo editing options

What is GIMP?

gimp interface

GIMP is a high-end graphic application that is packed with powerful features. One of them is the fact that it has over 300+ scripts that can be placed in any page. Scripts can be embedded in images, text, video, or any other application. This means that you can create different kinds of images with just few clicks of your mouse.

Another great option of GIMP is that you can easily change the background of your image editing program. Now this is very useful especially for those who want to change the look of their pictures. Other features of GIMP are also based on code that allows users to make changes in their digital photo with ease. You can even automate your graphic designing work using the built in undo system and merge tool in gimp. Another unique feature is that you can create layers on top of one another.

What is Inkscape?

inkscape interface

Inscape is capable of producing high quality vector drawings, with accuracy. One of its most important features is its ability to automatically align shapes while generating gradient lines. Another great feature is its ability to convert any type of shape into a smooth gradient which eliminates sharp corners. With Inkscape, you can easily create complex but detailed shapes and patterns. This makes the tool perfect for developing complex animation and image patterns.

It is available in two different options, the Inkscape Basic and the Professional version. The differences between them are number of colors as well as the size and transparency of shapes. The Professional version has a lot more features than the basic version and can be customized by adding additional features like gradient tools, color wheels and Lasso tools.

Comparison:

gimp logo
GIMP
inkscape logo
INKSCAPE

GIMP & Inkscape Features:

  • Cross-platform support
  • Text elements
  • Online tutorials
  • Different window modes
  • Color picker option
  • Node editing
  • Layered system
  • Bitmap tracing
  • Adjustable drawing tools
  • Drag-and-drop features

GIMP and Inkscape Price:

STARTING PRICE Free Free
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Cross-Platform:

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Support:

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FixThePhoto Choice:

The new features that GIMP has added recently is also a nice benefit, with many adding options such as filters, adjust gamma, sharpen image, and create panoramas.

Eva Williams

Writer & Gear Reviewer

Eva Williams is a talented family photographer and software expert who is in charge of mobile software and apps testing and overviewing in the FixThePhoto team. Eva earned her Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts from NYU and work 5+ years assisting some of the city’s popular wedding photographers. She doesn't trust Google search results and always tests everything herself, especially, much-hyped programs and apps.

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Tetiana Kostylieva

Photo & Video Insights Blogger

Tetiana Kostylieva is the content creator, who takes photos and videos for almost all FixThePhoto blog articles. Her career started in 2013 as a caricature artist at events. Now, she leads our editorial team, testing new ideas and ensuring the content is helpful and engaging. She likes vintage cameras and, in all articles, she always compares them with modern ones showing that it isn’t obligatory to invest in brand-new equipment to produce amazing results.

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