Gimp Vs Photoshop

The debate of Gimp vs Photoshop has made its rounds throughout the internet since both were available.  Both image editting programs can manipulate image files, create graphics, and edit photographs.  They are both adequate, but determining which on is better will be based on a number of factors, and is different for each individual.  By looking at the usability, cost, plug-in, and built-in functions, you will be able to determine which program is right for you.

Usability.  Both programs offer many of the same options.  Adobe Photoshop can be difficult to learn, with many options being buried deep in menus.  GIMP has the same issue, with many of the editing features found in deep levels of menu trees and button clicks.  The learning curve for each program is steep, and is what prevents many people from going from one program to another.  Learning Photoshop may be easier than learning GIMP, though, as Photoshop has many different tutorials online from a variety of users and Adobe itself.  GIMP also has some tutorials, but they are not as numerous.  Photoshop wins for usability based on the amount of material available for learning.

Price.  GIMP is free.  It doesn't cost anything.  Photoshop costs $700.  GIMP wins on price.

Built-in functions.  GIMP and Photoshop have the same amount of built in functions.  They can accomplish the same things, although the process may be slightly different.  There is no clear winner in this category.

Plug-ins. There are a wide variety of plug-ins for Photoshop.  There are some developed by the user community, and some that have been developed by professional software companies.  The amount of plug-ins that are available for GIMP are lacking.  They have some, but the lack of choices can be very prohibitive.  Photoshop wins here.