Graphic Design Software

GIMP vs Figma

Both are graphic design software. The short answer: choose GIMP if you are free, open-source photo editing; choose Figma if you are uI design, prototypes and team collaboration.

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GIMP logo GIMPFigma logo Figma
Best forFree, open-source photo editingUI design, prototypes and team collaboration
Free planYesYes
PricingSee providerSee provider
Built for IndiaGlobalGlobal
CategoriesGraphic Design SoftwareGraphic Design Software
Strengths
  • Completely free
  • Powerful
  • Real-time collaboration
  • Free starter plan
  • Huge community
Watch out for
  • Interface differs from Photoshop
  • Not built for print design
Visit GIMPVisit Figma

Which should you choose?

GIMP: Open-source raster image editor for Windows, Mac and Linux.

Figma: Collaborative design tool for interfaces, prototypes and whiteboarding.

The best way to decide is to run the same week of real work through both — most offer a free plan or trial — and compare how long tasks take, what your team prefers, and the total cost for your number of users including renewal pricing.

Not sure either fits? See all graphic design software compared.