GIMPLinux
vs
XnViewWindows
GIMP as a Linux alternative to XnView
Updated
Our verdict
GIMP can replace XnView for users who need more than just viewing and batch conversion, such as advanced editing, layer work, or scripting. It covers most of XnView’s core tasks—format support, batch processing, basic edits, and metadata handling—while adding powerful image manipulation tools. However, it is heavier and less focused on quick viewing or simple organization. It is best for photographers, designers, or hobbyists who already use GIMP for editing and want a single tool for conversion and basic management.
- License
- GPL-3.0+ AND LGPL-3.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.2.6 (September 10, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both support over 500 image formats including PNG, JPEG, TIFF, and WebP
- Both offer batch conversion and renaming
- Both allow basic edits like crop, rotate, and resize
- Both can edit metadata such as EXIF, IPTC, and XMP
- Both run on Linux, Windows, and macOS
What is different
- GIMP is a full‑featured editor with layers, brushes, and plugins; XnView is a lightweight viewer/organizer
- XnView has a dedicated tagging and folder organization UI; GIMP relies on external tools or manual folder management
- XnView’s batch processing is GUI‑driven and simpler; GIMP requires scripts or plug‑ins for complex batches
- XnView offers a built‑in thumbnail browser and quick preview; GIMP opens images in separate windows
- GIMP’s learning curve is steeper; XnView is more approachable for casual users
Opening your XnView files
GIMP can open most XnView‑handled formats such as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, and PSD. Exporting to XnView‑specific containers (e.g., XnView’s proprietary album files) is not supported. For standard image files, simply open them in GIMP and save or export in the desired format.
Switching from XnView to GIMP, step by step
- 1. Install GIMP from your distro’s package manager or Flathub.
- 2. Open XnView and export any album or tag structure to a simple folder hierarchy if needed.
- 3. In GIMP, use the Batch Process dialog (Filters → Batch → Batch Process) or Script‑Fu to convert images to the desired formats.
- 4. For metadata editing, use the Metadata dialog (Image → Metadata → Edit) or plug‑ins like ExifTool.
- 5. Replace XnView shortcuts with GIMP’s keyboard shortcuts or customize them via Edit → Keyboard Shortcuts.
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
Does GIMP support EXIF editing?
Yes, GIMP can edit EXIF data through the Metadata dialog or external plug‑ins such as ExifTool.
Can I use GIMP for simple image viewing?
GIMP can open images for viewing, but it is not as fast or lightweight as XnView for quick previews.
Is GIMP free to use?
Yes, GIMP is released under GPL‑3.0+ and LGPL‑3.0+ and is free to download and use.
5 other alternatives to XnView
darktabledarktable is a free, open‑source photo editor that manages raw files and offers a full non‑destructive…Open sourceFreeFlatpakdarktable vs XnView
KritaKrita is a full‑featured open‑source digital painting and illustration program.Open sourceFreeFlatpakKrita vs XnView
ShotwellShotwell is a GNOME photo manager for importing, organizing, and lightly editing images.Open sourceFreeFlatpakShotwell vs XnView
digiKamdigiKam is a comprehensive KDE photo manager for organizing, tagging, and editing digital photos with strong…Open sourceFreeFlatpakdigiKam vs XnView