Getting a working copy of GIMP onto a Windows 11 or Windows 10 machine is straightforward once you know which file to grab. This page walks through the current options, what to expect in terms of file size and system requirements, and how to make sure the copy you install actually came from the project rather than a repackaged imitation.
Almost every Windows 10 and Windows 11 computer sold in the last decade runs a 64-bit processor, so the 64-bit Windows installer is the correct choice for nearly everyone. The project publishes this installer directly from its own downloads page at gimp.org/downloads, and that page is the safest starting point because it links straight to files built and signed by the people who maintain the software.
There is also a Microsoft Store listing for GIMP, which some users prefer because it handles updates automatically through Windows and sandboxes the app slightly differently. Functionally the Store version and the standalone installer behave almost identically once GIMP is running; the main difference is how you receive updates and where the program folder lives. If you would rather not manage manual updates, the Store listing is a reasonable alternative. For a full breakdown of how the setup process differs between the two, see our guide to installing GIMP on Windows.
The Windows installer is typically in the neighborhood of 250–350 MB, depending on the release, because it bundles the program along with the libraries and plugins it needs to run without extra downloads. Once installed, GIMP occupies roughly 500 MB to 1 GB of disk space. In terms of hardware, GIMP is not particularly demanding by modern standards:
Because GIMP is free and open source, it unfortunately attracts copycat sites that bundle the installer with unwanted toolbars or outright malware. Before you run any installer, double-check the domain in your browser's address bar matches the official downloads page, and be wary of search ads or file-hosting sites that promise a "faster" or "optimized" download. A legitimate installer will be digitally signed and will not prompt you to install any browser extensions or unrelated software during setup.
Use the button below to start downloading the Windows installer package. The file is around 300 MB, so on most home connections it finishes in a couple of minutes.
You may see references to both GIMP 2.10 and the newer GIMP 3 line. The 2.10 series was the long-standing stable release for years and is still perfectly usable, while GIMP 3 introduces a modernized interface, better high-DPI handling, and updated file-format support. Our features overview compares what changed between the two if you are deciding which one to learn on. If your download page offers a choice, newer hardware generally benefits from picking the 3.x build. Once installed, you may also want to explore a portable setup if you need GIMP on more than one computer without a full install on each.
Yes. GIMP is free and open-source software, so there is no purchase, license key, or trial period involved in downloading or using it.
No account or sign-up is required. The download page simply links you to the installer file for your operating system.
Unless you have a specific reason to prefer the older interface, downloading the current GIMP 3 release is a sensible default for new users, since it includes the latest fixes and interface improvements.
Confirm you downloaded the 64-bit Windows build and that the file finished downloading completely. Our installation walkthrough covers common setup errors, including SmartScreen warnings, in more detail.