How to Resize an Image Using GIMP

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a free desktop editor. Resizing is done with Scale Image for pixel dimensions, then Export to save a JPG or PNG.

Resize an image in GIMP (pixels)

1. Open GIMP and go to File → Open and choose your image.
2. Go to Image → Scale Image (or press Shift + S on some setups).
3. Set Width and Height in pixels (e.g. 512×512, 1920×1080, or 72×72). Uncheck the chain icon if you need exact dimensions without keeping aspect ratio.
4. Choose interpolation: Cubic or Lanczos for photos when shrinking; No interpolation for pixel art.
5. Click Scale.
6. Export: File → Export As, pick .jpg or .png, set quality for JPEG if prompted, then Export.

Resize by percentage in GIMP

In the same Scale Image dialog, change the unit dropdown next to width/height to percent, enter 50% to halve the image, then scale and export as above.

Common sizes people search for

• Resize image to 512×512 — avatars and square thumbnails
• Image resizer 1920×1080 — Full HD wallpapers and video covers
• Image resizer 72×72 — small icons and favicons

Faster option: resize in the browser (no install)

If you only need to change dimensions or compress for the web, VSPic Resize Image runs locally in your browser—your file is not uploaded to a server. Upload, set pixels, and download in seconds.

Open free resize tool

GIMP vs online resize

GIMP is a trademark of the GIMP team. This guide is independent and not affiliated with GIMP.