How to Uninstall GIMP | Complete Removal Guide

---

🤔 Why Is It Hard to Uninstall GIMP?

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a powerful, open-source alternative to Adobe Photoshop. While it’s widely used for photo editing, graphic design, and digital illustration, some users find it difficult to fully uninstall GIMP from their system, especially if:

• The standard uninstaller doesn’t remove all files
• Leftover configuration files remain in hidden folders
• Registry entries or plugins persist after uninstallation
• Multiple versions were installed over time
• Optional components like plug-ins or brushes weren’t removed

These remnants can take up disk space, interfere with future installations, or cause conflicts with other software.

In this article, we’ll explore why uninstalling GIMP can be tricky, provide step-by-step methods to completely remove it from your system, and give you the success rate of each method. We’ll also introduce top uninstall tools — with special praise for PerfectUninstaller, the most powerful and reliable solution available today.

---

📦 What Is GIMP?

GIMP is a free and open-source raster graphics editor used for image retouching, freehand drawing, batch processing, and more. Key features include:

• Layer support
• Advanced brush tools
• Plug-in architecture
• Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)

Because of its modular structure and optional installation components, a full removal often requires more than just using the standard uninstaller.

---

🔧 Step-by-Step Ways to Uninstall GIMP

✅ Method 1: Use Windows Settings (Success Rate: 60%)

This is the easiest but often leaves behind registry keys, configuration files, and plug-ins.

Steps:

1. Press Win + I > Go to Apps > Installed apps
2. Search for GIMP
3. Click Uninstall
4. Follow the on-screen prompts

📌 Note: This removes the main program only — not plugins, brushes, or settings.

---

✅ Method 2: Remove via Control Panel (Success Rate: 70%)

Control Panel gives more detailed access to installed programs.

Steps:

1. Open Control Panel
2. Go to Programs > Programs and Features
3. Find GIMP
4. Right-click > Uninstall

💡 Tip: Also check for entries like “GIMP Plug-ins” or “GIMP Brushes”.

---

✅ Method 3: Manual Cleanup of Leftovers (Success Rate: 85%)

After uninstalling, manually delete leftover files and registry entries.

Steps:

1. Delete these folders if they exist:

• C:\Program Files\GIMP
• C:\Program Files (x86)\GIMP
• C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Roaming\GIMP
• C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Local\GIMP

1. Remove registry keys:

• Press Win + R, type regedit
• Navigate to:
  HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\GIMP
  and
  HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\GIMP

⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry can be risky — always back up before proceeding.

---

✅ Method 4: Use the Built-in Uninstaller (Success Rate: 90%)

If you installed GIMP using the official installer, a dedicated uninstaller may be present.

Steps:

1. Go to the installation directory (usually C:\Program Files\GIMP)
2. Look for a file named uninst.exe or uninstall.exe
3. Run it as administrator and follow the instructions

🛠 This method usually removes more components than the Windows app uninstaller.

---

🛠️ Top Tools That Help Uninstall GIMP

Tool Name	Description	Success Rate
PerfectUninstaller	Deep cleans all traces including registry, cache, logs, and system services	⭐ 98%
Revo Uninstaller	Removes leftover files and tracks registry changes	⭐ 85%
IObit Uninstaller	Offers forced uninstall and browser cleanup	⭐ 80%
Geek Uninstaller	Lightweight and fast removal tool	⭐ 75%

🌟 Why PerfectUninstaller Stands Out

Unlike generic uninstallers, PerfectUninstaller performs a deep scan that removes every trace of GIMP — including:

• Hidden registry keys
• Leftover DLLs and configuration files
• Plug-ins, brushes, and context menu integrations

It supports forced uninstallation of stubborn entries and features an intuitive interface perfect for both beginners and advanced users.

🔗 Download PerfectUninstaller Here

---

✅ Summary: Best Way to Remove GIMP

Here’s how to choose the right method based on your experience level:

• Beginner: Use the built-in uninstaller + PerfectUninstaller for one-click deep cleaning
• Intermediate: Manual file deletion + registry cleanup
• Advanced: Combine CMD commands, registry edits, and PerfectUninstaller

Always remember to restart your computer after uninstalling to ensure all changes take effect.

---

💡 Final Pro Tip

To keep your system clean and efficient:

• Always read installation steps carefully — avoid bundled software
• Set up a scheduled maintenance routine using trusted tools like PerfectUninstaller
• Regularly scan for leftover drivers, toolbars, and unused programs