Years ago when I started using Linux, I came across the Gnu Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) when I was looking for free graphics software. GIMP was a truly awesome program and fit all my needs perfectly. Due to the work I'm currently doing, I use Windows based systems, and luckily a port of this fine program is available.

The Good
The GIMP windows port can be downloaded for free at http://user.sgic.fi/~tml/gimp/win32/. For being a port, it comes with an extremely friendly installer and plenty of documentation. Most of the Linux GUI characteristics have been retained such as tear off menus and sizeable dialogue boxes. One of the most convenient things about GIMP for Windows is that it is extremely small compared with other Windows graphics applications. The port comes with a wide array of filters and filter scripts to make altering photos or drawings a breeze. One of the best things about GIMP is the undo level can be increased so you can undo almost any change you make (with the exception of a few of the filters.) Also, it handles a huge array of file formats, and handles all the conversions very well. I an also pleased that you can open up many, many images up at the same time without any system slowdown. For the more experienced person, you can write scripts and batch files to run through a predetermined set of filters or effects, making editing of all large amount of files very easy. I know that Adobe Photoshop and other programs can do this, but GIMP is free. I've found that GIMP also has a huge user base, meaning that free documentation is available all over the web.

The Somewhat Bad
First, because the Windows version is a port, it will sometimes crash because some of the resources are different. Luckily, the person porting this releases updates all the time, and it seems to be getting more and more stable. Second, if you haven't used Linux before the layout of the windows and menus may seem strange because they behave as Linux objects. With a little time, the interface will become familiar.

Overall
GIMP is an excellent program and the Windows port is just as nice. It is still in the process of being ported, so some problems occasionally pop up. If you were a fan of Linux GIMP, then I would strongly recommend this program to you. I would also recommend it to anyone who likes free quality software. While it may be called the GIMP it is certainly powerful.



Recommended: Yes