GIMP High-Bit Depth Precision and Tool Consistency

GEGL Precision Limitations

GIMP 2.10 and later utilize the GEGL library to support 8, 16, and 32-bit per channel precision. While the core engine handles these higher bit depths, a discrepancy exists between the processing engine and the user interface tools.

Many legacy tools and UI elements remain optimized for 8-bit workflows. This creates uncertainty when performing complex operations on high-precision images, as some tools may truncate data or behave inconsistently compared to their 8-bit counterparts.

• Which specific toolsets currently lack full parity with 16-bit and 32-bit precision?
• Is the inconsistency in tool behavior a permanent limitation of the legacy UI or a transitional state of the GEGL integration?