GIMP 3.2 Pushes Photoshop's 'Smart Object' Model, But UI Still 'Hot Mess' for Veterans
GIMP 3.2 introduced Link Layers and Vector Layers, features that directly mirror Photoshop's core functionality, giving power users significant new tools.
Commenters are deeply split. Some users like webdoodle claim Link Layers allow achieving decade-old Photoshop workflows. However, detractors like warmaster dismiss the advancements, calling the interface a 'hot mess.' Others, like pennomi, demand an overhaul comparable to Blender's journey for GIMP to seriously challenge Adobe.
The primary friction point is the interface. While functional parity is claimed in key areas, the consensus settles on one major weakness: the UI/UX is the biggest hurdle for professionals coming from Adobe. Improvement requires more than just features; it needs fundamental structural revision.
Key Points
Link Layers address critical workflow deficiencies compared to Photoshop.
webdoodle noted that link layers were a 'significant improvement' allowing comparable function to Photoshop.
The overall GIMP User Interface remains structurally deficient.
ChristerMLB criticized the current layout as 'cramped and messy,' indicating a fundamental overhaul is needed.
The advanced features successfully mimic key Adobe functions.
HexaBack pointed to Link and Vector Layers, suggesting they functionally solve problems previously requiring 'Smart Object' workflows.
Direct feature parity is not enough for market acceptance.
pennomi stated GIMP needs a UI/UX overhaul on the level of Blender to compete credibly with Photoshop.
The learning curve requires focused task-based learning, not comparison.
Libb advised users to 'stop comparing it to Photoshop' and instead define specific tasks for learning.
Source Discussions (4)
This report was synthesized from the following Lemmy discussions, ranked by community score.