Affinity Photo vs GIMP
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Pro photo editing, one-time purchase.
The verdict
Both Affinity Photo and GIMP are credible photo editing tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Affinity Photo if you want a longer free trial (14 days) and a higher overall rating (4.7/5). Pro photo editing, one-time purchase.
Choose GIMP if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free) and a free plan to start on. Free, open-source image editor.
Affinity Photo vs GIMP: side by side
| Dimension | Affinity Photo | GIMP |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $69.99 once | FreeWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Free trial | 14 daysWinner | — |
| Pricing model | One-time | Open source |
| Best for | Photographers, Budget Conscious | Budget Conscious, Hobbyists |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Ios | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Rating | 4.7/5Winner | 4.3/5 |
Affinity Photo key facts
- Vendor
- Canva
- Pricing
- One-time — From $69.99 once
- Free tier
- Free trial (14 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Ios
- Best for
- Photographers, Budget Conscious
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2015
- Headquarters
- Nottingham, UK
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 Affinity Photo better than GIMP?
Neither is universally better — Affinity Photo 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 Affinity Photo or GIMP cheaper?
GIMP is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Affinity Photo starts at from $69.99 once; GIMP starts at free.
Can Affinity Photo 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.