GIMP als Linux-Alternative zu Adobe Lightroom

Aktualisiert am 21. Oktober 2026

Unser Fazit

GIMP is a capable raster editor but not a direct replacement for Lightroom. It lacks native non-destructive RAW workflows and large-scale library management. If you need to manage thousands of photos with metadata and non-destructive edits, GIMP will frustrate you. However, if your workflow is simple—editing a few images at a time with layers and filters—GIMP works well. Use it for retouching and composition, but pair it with a dedicated cataloging tool like Darktable or RawTherapee for serious photo management.

Funktionsabdeckung40%

Lizenz: GPL-3.0+ AND LGPL-3.0+
Preis: Kostenlos
Aktuelle Version: 3.2.6 (10. September 2026)
Bewertung: —

GIMP installieren Website ↗

Screenshot von GIMP — Scene 4 cut 15 of "ZeMarmot" being edited in GIMP. Illustration by Aryeom (CC by-sa 4.0 International)

Was gleich funktioniert

Both support extensive image formats including RAW, JPEG, and TIFF.
Both offer batch processing capabilities for repetitive tasks.
Both allow for advanced color correction and tone mapping.
Both are extensible through plugins and scripting interfaces.
Both support ICC color profiles for consistent color management.

Was anders ist

GIMP uses a layer-based model, while Lightroom uses a non-destructive, parameter-based model.
Lightroom has built-in database cataloging and smart previews; GIMP does not manage libraries natively.
Lightroom’s interface is optimized for browsing and selecting photos; GIMP is optimized for pixel-level editing.
GIMP requires external tools or manual workflows for metadata management; Lightroom handles metadata automatically.
Lightroom’s RAW processing is integrated and non-destructive; GIMP’s RAW support is basic and often requires plugins for advanced control.

Ihre Adobe Lightroom-Dateien öffnen

GIMP can open RAW files directly, but it does not read Lightroom’s .xmp sidecar files or .lrdata catalogs. You can export images from Lightroom as TIFF or PSD to open in GIMP, but non-destructive edit history is lost. GIMP can save to most standard formats, but it cannot write back to Lightroom’s proprietary catalog structure. If you rely on Lightroom’s metadata, you must export that data separately.

Von Adobe Lightroom zu GIMP wechseln – Schritt für Schritt

Export your photos from Lightroom as TIFF or PSD files to preserve layers and edits.
Install GIMP and any necessary plugins like G’MIC for advanced filters.
Set up ICC profiles in GIMP to match your Lightroom color settings.
Use GIMP’s batch processing to apply common adjustments to multiple files.
Manage your library with a separate tool like Digikam or RawTherapee if needed.
Test your workflow on a small batch of images before migrating your entire library.