GIMPLinux
vs
Microsoft Paint 3DWindows
GIMP as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Paint 3D
Updated
Our verdict
GIMP can replace Paint 3D for users who mainly need 2D image editing, painting, and basic layering. It offers a richer brush engine, advanced compositing, and extensive format support, but it does not provide 3D mesh creation, texturing, or animation features that Paint 3D offers. For artists who want to move from simple 3D painting to full‑blown 2D illustration or photo retouching, GIMP is a solid choice.
- License
- GPL-3.0+ AND LGPL-3.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.2.6 (September 10, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both allow layer‑based editing and basic painting tools
- Both support exporting to common raster formats like PNG and JPEG
- Both have a user‑friendly interface for quick projects
- Both are available on Windows, macOS, and Linux
What is different
- GIMP lacks native 3D mesh creation and 3D painting capabilities
- Paint 3D supports basic 3D animation and material editing
- GIMP does not natively import or export .paint3d files
- Paint 3D provides a quick 3D model creation wizard that GIMP does not have
- GIMP’s UI is focused on 2D workflows, whereas Paint 3D mixes 2D and 3D
Opening your Microsoft Paint 3D files
Paint 3D uses the .paint3d container format, which GIMP cannot read or write. To migrate, export the 3D model or image from Paint 3D to a common format such as PNG or OBJ, then import that file into GIMP for further editing. The reverse export to .paint3d is not supported.
Switching from Microsoft Paint 3D to GIMP, step by step
- Open Paint 3D and export the image or 3D model to PNG, JPEG, or OBJ.
- Save the file on your Linux machine.
- Launch GIMP and use File → Open to load the exported file.
- If it’s a 3D model, use a 3D viewer or convert it to a 2D image before editing in GIMP.
- Save or export the final result from GIMP in the desired format.
Key features of GIMP
- Layer-based editing with masks, blending modes, and transparency
- Advanced brush engine for digital painting and retouching
- Support for Photoshop-compatible plug-ins (via compatibility layers)
- Batch processing and scripting with Script-Fu, Python, or GEGL
- Non-destructive editing possible through plug-ins like G'MIC
- Extensive format support: PNG, JPEG, TIFF, PSD, WebP, and more
- Customizable interface with dockable panels and themes
- Color management with ICC profile support
How to install GIMP on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.gimp.GIMPsudo apt install gimpsudo apt install gimpsudo dnf install gimpsudo pacman -S gimpsudo zypper install gimpFrequently asked questions
Can I edit a .paint3d file directly in GIMP?
No, GIMP does not support the .paint3d format. You must export to a common format first.
Does GIMP support 3D painting?
GIMP is a raster editor; it does not have native 3D painting or mesh editing features.
What 3D formats can GIMP import?
GIMP can import OBJ, STL, and other simple 3D files only as 2D renderings; it cannot edit the geometry.
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