What is the main difference between Darktable and GIMP?

Darktable and GIMP are both photo editing software but differ in their approach, features, and target audience. Compare their GitHub stats, technology stack, and community adoption to make the best choice.

Which is better: Darktable or GIMP?

The choice between Darktable and GIMP depends on your specific needs, technical requirements, and team preferences. Both are quality open source solutions with active communities.

Can I migrate from Darktable to GIMP?

Migration between Darktable and GIMP is possible but requires careful planning. Consider data export/import capabilities, feature parity, and potential workflow changes.

Sevalla – Deploy your app before your coffee gets cold. It’s that easy. Try Sevalla with $50 free credit.

Learn More

Darktable vs GIMP

Learn how Darktable and GIMP differ in their key features, development activity, technology stack and community adoption, so you can decide which of these photo editing software is best for you.

Darktable

Open source photography workflow application for RAW development. Non-destructive editing, professional color management, and GPU acceleration for photographers.

Visit Darktable Read more

13,037stars+127(+1%)

Last 30 days

Last commit
15 hours ago
Repository age
14 years
Version
5.6.1
License
GPL-3.0
Repository
darktable-org/darktable

GIMP

Free, open-source image editor with professional tools for photo manipulation, digital art creation, and graphic design. Cross-platform support.

Visit GIMP Read more

6,401stars+61(+1%)

Last 30 days

Last commit
14 hours ago
Repository age
14 years
Repository
gnome/gimp

Detailed Comparison

Darktable appears to have several advantages over GIMP, particularly in popularity and licensing. Consider your specific needs regarding popularity, growth, activity, technology, maturity, licensing and features when making your decision.

Darktable wins

Community & Popularity

Darktable leads in popularity with 13,037 stars vs 6,401 stars for GIMP. The 104% higher star count indicates stronger community adoption. In terms of developer contributions, Darktable has 1,424 forks, indicating strong developer engagement.

Comparable

Growth Momentum

Darktable and GIMP are moving at much the same rate, adding 127 stars and adding 61 stars respectively over the last 30 days (+1% vs +1%). Neither is pulling away from the other on momentum alone.

Comparable

Development Activity

Both projects show recent activity, with Darktable last updated 15 hours ago and GIMP 14 hours ago.

Comparable

Technology Stack

Both tools share common technology foundations, being built with JavaScript, CSS, Bash, Python, C, Objective-C, C++, Perl, Lua. However, they differ in their additional technology choices: Darktable uses Ruby.

Comparable