Figma vs GIMP: Which One Is Better in 2024?

Figma and GIMP are essential tools for businesses and designers, offering collaborative design capabilities and powerful image editing features, respectively. We'll compare Figma and GIMP to determine which one best meets the needs of modern design workflows.

A Quick Overview of Figma and GIMP

What is Figma?

Figma is a collaborative interface design tool that helps design and development teams build products together. It offers a range of products and solutions tailored for different roles and use cases, emphasizing seamless collaboration and integration between design and development.

Figma's real-time collaboration allows multiple team members to work within a single shared file. Its AI-generated UI feature enables users to instantly create mockups and prototypes, setting it apart from competitors.

What is GIMP?

GIMP is a free and open-source image editor that provides tools for photo manipulation, original artwork creation, graphic design, and scripted image manipulation. It supports multiple operating systems and allows users to modify and distribute its source code.

GIMP offers high-quality photo manipulation tools for retouching, restoring, and creating composites. Its status as free and open-source software allows users to modify and distribute its source code, providing a high level of customization and extensibility.

Features of Figma and GIMP

Similarities

Figma and GIMP, while distinct in their primary focus, share several key features that make them valuable tools for designers and developers alike.

• Both offer robust design tools for creating and editing graphics.
• They support a wide range of file formats, ensuring compatibility with various projects.
• Both platforms provide extensive customization options through plugins and extensions.
• They support layers, making it easier to manage complex designs and compositions.
• Both tools are accessible across multiple operating systems, enhancing their versatility.

Differences

Figma and GIMP cater to different design needs, each excelling in unique areas. Here are the most significant differences in their features:

• Real-Time Collaboration: Figma allows multiple users to work on the same file simultaneously, a feature GIMP lacks.
• Prototyping Tools: Figma includes interactive prototyping capabilities, whereas GIMP focuses solely on raster graphics editing.
• Design Systems: Figma supports reusable components and design systems, which are not available in GIMP.
• Web-Based Access: Figma is accessible from any device with an internet connection, while GIMP requires installation on a local machine.
• AI Features: Figma offers AI-generated UI elements and prototypes, a feature not present in GIMP.

User Interface and Usability

Figma's user interface is designed for real-time collaboration, featuring shared design files and AI-generated UI elements. Its user experience is streamlined, integrating design and development workflows with tools for prototyping and communication. The platform's usability is enhanced by its intuitive interface and extensive learning resources, making it accessible to various roles.

GIMP, on the other hand, offers a feature-rich user interface tailored for photo manipulation, artwork creation, and graphic design. Its user experience is versatile, supporting cross-platform availability and extensive customization through plugins and scripts. GIMP's usability is high, with sophisticated tools and integration with other software, catering to different professional needs.

Figma has a more intuitive user interface and better overall usability compared to GIMP.

Collaboration

Figma facilitates collaboration by allowing multiple team members to work on a single shared file in real-time. This feature is complemented by built-in communication tools such as audio, chat, and comments, which streamline feedback and discussions. Additionally, Figma's design systems and Dev Mode ensure that design and development teams are aligned, making it easier to track progress and maintain consistency.

GIMP, in contrast, does not offer built-in collaboration features. While it excels in image manipulation and graphic design, it lacks the real-time collaborative tools that Figma provides. Users must rely on external software for teamwork, which can complicate the workflow. Therefore, Figma is better suited for collaborative projects.

Figma and GIMP Pricing

Figma offers a range of subscription plans, starting with a free Starter Team plan. The Professional Team plan costs $15 per full seat per month, while the Organization plan is $45 per full seat per month. The Enterprise plan is the most expensive at $75 per full seat per month. Discounts are available for annual billing.

GIMP, on the other hand, is entirely free to use. There are no subscription fees or one-time purchase costs. The project relies on donations to sustain its development. Users can contribute through various methods, but these donations are voluntary and not required to access any features.

Overall, GIMP has better pricing since it is free, while Figma requires a subscription for advanced features.

Comparing Figma and GIMP to Piktochart

Piktochart transforms complex ideas into captivating visuals that inform and engage your audience. With Piktochart AI, you can create stunning infographics, reports, and presentations in seconds, perfectly aligned with your brand. No design experience required.

Pros of Piktochart

• AI-Powered Design Generator: Piktochart's AI-powered design generator allows users to create stunning visuals quickly and effortlessly, making it a standout feature for those needing fast, professional results.
• Wide Range of Visual Tools: From infographics and banners to brochures and presentations, Piktochart offers a comprehensive suite of visual tools that cater to various design needs.
• Customizable Text and View Properties: Users can easily customize text properties and view settings, including background colors and aspect ratios, providing greater flexibility in video and graphic design.
• Accessible Video Editing: Piktochart makes video editing and content repurposing accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical expertise, thanks to its intuitive interface and robust features.
• Extensive Template Library: With a vast array of templates tailored for different use cases and industries, Piktochart helps users save time and create professional-looking designs effortlessly.

Piktochart's Pricing

• Free Plan: $0 (Free forever)
• Pro Plan: $14 per member/month, billed annually (or $29 per member/month if billed monthly)
• Business Plan: $24 per member/month, billed annually (or $49 per member/month if billed monthly)
• Enterprise Plan: Custom Pricing
• Campus Plan: Custom Pricing (Minimum 3000 seats)

What Are Others Saying?

Figma Reviews

Overall, users have given Figma a rating of 4.7 out of 5. While many appreciate its ease of use and team collaboration features, some find the learning curve and performance issues frustrating.

"The learning curve is steep, and it lacks some essential features." - John D., 3.5 out of 5

"Performance can be sluggish, especially with larger files." - Sarah K., 3.8 out of 5

"Missing some advanced features that other tools offer." - Alex M., 3.9 out of 5

Find more of Figma reviews on G2!

GIMP Reviews

Overall, users have given GIMP a rating of 4.3 out of 5. While many appreciate its free services and photo editing capabilities, some find the learning curve and limited features frustrating.

"Technical issues with multilayer selection and transformations, user interface not very friendly." - Vishal L., 3.5 out of 5

"More confusing and less intuitive than paid alternatives, requires more manual effort." - Devon Courtney T. K., 3.8 out of 5

"Some features like multiplayer edit would be more helpful." - Pooja P., 3.9 out of 5

Find more of GIMP reviews on G2!

Piktochart Reviews

Our users have given Piktochart an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5. They appreciate the ease of use, the variety of templates, and the ability to create professional visuals quickly.

• "Easy to create content even if you're not a designer." - Jessica D.
• "My Go-To for ALL Professional Presentations!" - Jennifer K.
• "Piktochart offers good looking pre-built templates for creating graphics." - Meenakshi J.

Find more of our reviews on G2!

Why choose one over the other?

Why a consumer might want to use Figma over GIMP:

• Figma is ideal for design teams needing real-time collaboration and integrated prototyping tools, making it perfect for product designers and remote workers.

Why a consumer might want to use GIMP over Figma:

• GIMP is a great choice for budget-conscious users and open-source enthusiasts who need a free, highly customizable image editor with extensive plugin support.

Why a consumer might want to use Piktochart over GIMP and Figma:

• Piktochart is perfect for non-designers and small teams who need an easy-to-use tool for creating professional visuals quickly, without requiring extensive design skills.

Figma, GIMP, or Piktochart: Which is the best platform for you?

Whether you're a professional designer or a beginner, Figma, GIMP, and Piktochart each offer unique strengths to suit your needs. While Figma excels in real-time collaboration and GIMP provides powerful, free image editing, Piktochart stands out for its user-friendly interface and quick, professional results. We believe Piktochart is the perfect choice for anyone looking to create stunning visuals effortlessly. Give it a try and see how it can transform your design process!