GIMP vs OpenShot
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free, open-source raster graphics editor offering many Photoshop-like capabilities at no cost. It is fully scriptable and runs on every major platform.
OpenShot is a free, open-source video editor for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It supports keyframe animation, unlimited tracks, and more. The software is highly customizable and has a user-friendly interface. It also supports a wide range of file formats, including 4K video editing.
Completely free and open source.
- Completely free and open source
- Cross-platform
- Highly extensible
- No subscription ever
- Free and open-source, making it accessible to anyone.
- Highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the software to their needs.
- Supports a wide range of file formats, making it easy to work with different media files.
- User-friendly interface, making it easy to use for both beginners and professionals.
- Dated interface for some
- Learning curve
- Fewer pro conveniences than Photoshop
- Limited support for advanced features, such as 3D modeling and animation.
- Not as widely used as other video editing software, which can make it harder to find resources and support.
- Can be buggy at times, which can be frustrating for users.
What reviewers say
GIMP Reviews
4.3 (3)Solid choice
GIMP has been part of our stack. Completely free and open source. Minor gripe: learning curve. Would recommend.
Solid choice
Been using GIMP for a while. Highly extensible. Minor gripe: fewer pro conveniences than photoshop. Would recommend.
Recommend GIMP
Tried GIMP recently. Highly extensible. No real complaints. Would recommend.
OpenShot Reviews
No reviews yet.
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to GIMP
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Alternatives to OpenShot
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataOpenShot is the go‑to free video editor; GIMP is the free raster image editor – choose based on whether you need video or still‑image work.
Key differences
- •OpenShot handles video (4K, multiple tracks, keyframe animation); GIMP handles only raster images.
- •OpenShot includes built‑in effects, transitions, and color correction for video; GIMP offers layers, masks, and brush tools for images.
- •OpenShot’s interface is geared toward timeline editing; GIMP’s UI is a traditional Photoshop‑style layout.
- •Both are free and open‑source, but OpenShot is Python‑based desktop app, while GIMP runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Pricing & value
Both are completely free, open‑source desktop applications with no subscription costs.
Ease of use / learning curve
OpenShot is described as user‑friendly for beginners and professionals; GIMP’s interface is noted as dated with a steeper learning curve.
Features & depth
OpenShot offers video‑specific features like 4K editing, unlimited tracks, keyframe animation; GIMP lacks video capabilities.
Integrations & ecosystem
GIMP is highly extensible via plugins and scripts; OpenShot has no API and limited extensibility.
Support
OpenShot provides email and community forum support; GIMP’s support options are not specified.
Scalability
OpenShot can handle unlimited video/audio tracks and 4K footage; GIMP is limited to image resolution and size.
Security & privacy
Both are open‑source desktop apps; no specific security or privacy details are provided.
Choose GIMP if…
Image editors needing a free, extensible raster editor.
Choose OpenShot if…
Video creators needing free 4K editing and timeline control.
Common questions
Is there any cost to use either tool?
Both OpenShot and GIMP are completely free and open‑source.
Can I edit video with GIMP?
No, GIMP is an image editor only; video editing is only supported by OpenShot.
Which tool has more extensibility through plugins?
GIMP is scriptable and extensible via plugins, while OpenShot has no API or plugin system.