Inkscape vs GIMP
Side-by-side from the Top 11 ranking of The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026). Last verified July 2, 2026.
The short answer
Inkscape ranks higher on Top 11 (#9 vs #10) for Designers and marketing teams choosing graphic design software. The best free tool for vector and SVG work.
At a glance
| Inkscape | GIMP | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #9 / The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026) | #10 / The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 7.6 | 7.5 |
| Best for | Best free vector editor | Best free raster editor |
| Pricing | $ ($0) | $ ($0) |
| HQ | Open-source project | Open-source project |
| Founded | 2003 | 1998 |
Inkscape
The best free tool for vector and SVG work.
inkscape.orgSee full entry in The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026)
GIMP
The most capable free Photoshop alternative.
www.gimp.orgSee full entry in The 11 Best Graphic Design Software (2026)
Methodology and scoring weights live at /methodology. No vendor pays for placement — see about.