Adobe Lightroom vs GIMP
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Photo editing and organization for photographers.
The verdict
Both Adobe Lightroom and GIMP are credible photo editing tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Adobe Lightroom if you want a longer free trial (7 days) and a higher overall rating (4.6/5). Photo editing and organization for photographers.
Choose GIMP if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free) and a free plan to start on. Free, open-source image editor.
Adobe Lightroom vs GIMP: side by side
| Dimension | Adobe Lightroom | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $9.99/mo | FreeWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Free trial | 7 daysWinner | — |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Open source |
| Best for | Photographers | Budget Conscious, Hobbyists |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Ios, Android | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Rating | 4.6/5Winner | 4.3/5 |
Adobe Lightroom key facts
- Vendor
- Adobe
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $9.99/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (7 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Photographers
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2007
- Headquarters
- San Jose, CA, USA
GIMP key facts
- Vendor
- GIMP
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Budget Conscious, Hobbyists
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 1998
- Headquarters
- Open source
Frequently asked questions
Is Adobe Lightroom better than GIMP?
Neither is universally better — Adobe Lightroom edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Adobe Lightroom or GIMP cheaper?
GIMP is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Adobe Lightroom starts at from $9.99/mo; GIMP starts at free.
Can Adobe Lightroom replace GIMP?
Yes for most teams — both are photo editing tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.