The biggest upgrade to GIMP is finally here. While Photoshop has been the go-to choice for professionals and enthusiasts, the recent release of GIMP 3 has sparked a renewed debate: can the free, open-source alternative finally compete with the Adobe giant? After a month of intensive use, pitting GIMP 3 against the industry standard, Photoshop, the results are in. Let’s discuss GIMP 3 enhancements (and limitations compared to Adobe's tool), and conclude whether it is truly ready to challenge Photoshop’s dominance.

The GIMP UI is on par with Photoshop

GIMP is finally nice to look at

The user interface is not a particularly strong aspect of many open-source software programs, including GIMP. After all, these community-backed projects prioritize features over interface refinements. GIMP 2.x was often criticized for a user interface that felt dated and clunky. This design felt distinctly behind the times, especially when compared to the sleek interfaces of Photoshop.

However, GIMP 3 has undergone a significant visual overhaul. Aside from a new modern app icon, GIMP 3 has a streamlined design, fresh icons, and it focuses on clean lines and consistent design elements. Of course, it’s not as eye-catching as Pixelmator Pro (it’s still the UI benchmark for me), but compared to Adobe Photoshop, it doesn’t look outdated either.

Better file format compatibility on GIMP

Handles your PSD files without thinking twice

GIMP already excels with file format compatibility. And with the latest v3.0, it takes the entire experience to the next level. It can now handle PSD files with higher bit depths. It can also handle 16-bits-per-channel LAB PSDs, which is essential for professional image editing that requires greater color accuracy and detail. Overall, it’s an excellent add-on that ensures a smooth transition to existing Photoshop users.

If you are a game developer or frequently work with textures, you can now load DDS files with BC7 support without breaking a sweat.

GIMP closes a crucial gap with non-destructive editing

The biggest addition to GIMP 3

GIMP finally fixes one of the major cons with the version 3.0. Non-destructive editing allows users to make changes to an image without permanently altering the original pixels. I’m not a professional, and it allows me the freedom to experiment without fear of losing my original work.

I can now better manage layers and use masks to adjust visibility without permanently changing the original pixels. If you have used non-destructive editing in Photoshop, you will find yourself right at home with GIMP’s implementation.

GIMP didn't stop at adding non-destructive features. It now features a powerful brush engine, refined text and typography tools, and better selection tools that go head-to-head with Photoshop.

GIMP feels faster now

Performance improvements

Here is where GIMP truly surprised me. There is a noticeable reduction in lag and delays when using the interface, particularly with large images or complex layer structures. Tools like the brush, clone, and healing also felt more responsive than before. GIMP 3 has also improved its cache management, and as a result, it uses system resources more efficiently.

Overall, the combination of GEGL (Generic Graphics Library) and efficient codebase has created a GIMP experience that can easily rival Photoshop.

Photoshop Edges out GIMP with AI tricks

Adobe leads the AI race

It’s no surprise here. Photoshop offers a bunch of AI tricks that work as advertised. These AI-driven tools streamline complex tasks, automate repetitive processes, and unlock creative possibilities that are simply not available in GIMP.

Aside from generative features, Adobe has smartly integrated neural filters that offer a range of AI-powered adjustments that can dramatically alter the look and feel of an image with a few clicks. My favorite AI add-on is object selection, which allows me to automatically identify and select objects within an image. It works well with even complex shapes and outlines. I cannot overstate the amount of time it has saved me in recent months.

Cross-platform availability is better on Photoshop

Make tweaks on the go

While GIMP has covered the basics with native apps on Windows, Mac, and Linux, Adobe is a step ahead with accessibility on the web, iPad, and iPhone (an Android version is coming later this year). Photoshop’s iPad version is optimized for touch input and Apple Pencil support. This is an excellent convenience for on-the-go edits or when you want to access recent designs from the Adobe Cloud.

The classic battle gets intense

After a month of intensive use, it's clear that GIMP 3 is a significant improvement over its predecessor. Its modern UI, performance enhancements, and improved PSD handling make it a compelling alternative for many users. The addition of non-destructive editing and new text and color tools takes the entire experience to the next level.

However, it’s still no match for Photoshop’s advanced AI features, cross-platform availability, and cloud integration. Ultimately, the decision to switch depends on individual needs and priorities. As for me, I’m sticking with my Adobe Photograph plan as those AI features have been a huge time-saver in my workflow. If Photoshop seems costly, explore top open-source alternatives.