Pixelmator Pro vs GIMP
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Pixelmator Pro is a polished, Mac-native image editor that pairs an approachable interface with machine-learning features like super resolution and smart selection. It is a one-time purchase popular with Mac users.
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.
Around $49.99 one-time on the Mac App Store.
Completely free and open source.
- Beautiful native Mac app
- Useful ML features
- One-time purchase
- Great value
- Completely free and open source
- Cross-platform
- Highly extensible
- No subscription ever
- Mac-only
- Not as deep as Photoshop
- Smaller ecosystem
- Dated interface for some
- Learning curve
- Fewer pro conveniences than Photoshop
What reviewers say
Pixelmator Pro Reviews
5.0 (2)Solid choice
Tried Pixelmator Pro recently. Useful ML features. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Recommend Pixelmator Pro
We rolled out Pixelmator Pro last quarter. Useful ML features. No real complaints. Would recommend.
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.
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Pixelmator Pro
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Alternatives to GIMP
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataPixelmator Pro offers a polished, Mac‑only, one‑time‑purchase editor with modern ML tools, while GIMP provides a free, cross‑platform, open‑source solution with broader extensibility but a steeper learning curve.
Key differences
- •Platform support: Pixelmator Pro is Mac‑only; GIMP runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
- •Cost model: Pixelmator Pro requires a $49.99 one‑time purchase; GIMP is completely free.
- •Machine‑learning features: Pixelmator Pro includes built‑in ML super‑resolution and selection; GIMP lacks native ML tools.
- •User interface: Pixelmator Pro has a modern native Mac UI; GIMP’s interface is considered dated by some users.
- •Extensibility: GIMP supports plugins and scripting for deep customization; Pixelmator Pro offers no API or extensibility.
Pricing & value
GIMP is free and open source, while Pixelmator Pro costs $49.99 one‑time.
Ease of use / learning curve
Pixelmator Pro’s native Mac UI is praised as beautiful and intuitive; GIMP’s interface is dated and has a steeper learning curve.
Features & depth
Pixelmator Pro offers GPU‑accelerated editing and built‑in ML tools, which GIMP lacks.
Integrations & ecosystem
GIMP is scriptable and extensible via plugins; Pixelmator Pro has no API or extensibility.
Collaboration
Neither product mentions built‑in collaboration features; both are desktop‑only apps.
Scalability
GIMP runs on multiple OSes, allowing teams with varied platforms to use the same tool.
Support
Pixelmator Pro is a commercial product with official support channels; GIMP relies on community support.
Choose Pixelmator Pro if…
Mac‑only users who want a one‑time purchase with modern ML features and a polished UI.
Choose GIMP if…
Budget‑conscious or cross‑platform teams needing free, extensible software despite a dated UI.
Common questions
Can I use Pixelmator Pro on Windows?
No, Pixelmator Pro is Mac‑only.
Is there any cost to use GIMP now or in the future?
GIMP is completely free and open source with no subscription or purchase required.
Which tool offers built‑in AI or machine‑learning enhancements?
Pixelmator Pro includes ML‑powered super resolution and selection; GIMP does not have native ML features.