AI image generators have exploded in popularity recently, with new AI models like DALL-E 2, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion allowing users to create stunning images simply by describing what they want to see. But many of the most advanced AI image generators require a paid subscription or credits to generate images. Are there any free options available?
What are AI image generators?
AI image generators use machine learning models trained on millions of images to create completely new images based on text descriptions. They work by identifying visual patterns in training images, learning how different objects appear, and then using that knowledge to generate new images matching text prompts.
Some of the most advanced models like DALL-E 2 and Midjourney use a type of machine learning called generative adversarial networks (GANs). The generator creates images from noise and the discriminator tries to identify generated images from real ones. This adversarial training pushes the generator to create increasingly realistic images.
Top free AI image generators
Here are some of the best free AI image generators available today:
Craiyon
Formerly known as DALL-E Mini, Craiyon is a free AI image generator created by Anthropic as a demo. It can create 512×512 images based on text prompts. The quality isn’t as high as leading paid options, but it’s very usable for a free service. There are no limits on image generation.
Midjourney Lite
Midjourney recently launched a free version of its image generator called Midjourney Lite. It’s limited to 25 generations per month, but allows free online access to Midjourney’s impressive image AI. Images are 1024×1024 in size. An unlimited paid version is $30 per month.
Stable Diffusion web demo
Stable Diffusion is an open source image AI model. There are a few free web demos available to try it out, allowing you to generate 512×512 images with Stable Diffusion for free. The demo options include Deforum, Lexica, and Runway ML.
DreamStudio
DreamStudio by Anthropic provides free credits to generate 50 images up to 512×512 pixels in size using Stable Diffusion. You need to provide an email and credit card but aren’t charged. After using the 50 free images, paid tiers start at $12 per month.
NightCafe Creator
NightCafe Creator focuses on AI-generated art including images, photos, and music. Users get 3 free credits per day to make images up to 512×512 in resolution. Paid subscriptions start at $9 per month for unlimited access.
What can you create with free AI image generators?
The free services allow you to create a diverse range of AI-generated images, while limited compared to paid options. Images can include:
- Characters and people
- Animals and creatures
- Fantasy scenes
- Landscapes
- Product concepts
The quality is often slightly lower resolution or clarity than paid generators. But the free services continue to improve quickly and provide an easy way to start exploring AI image generation at no cost.
Are there limits on free image generation?
The free services offer limited image generations per month before requiring an upgrade to a paid account for unlimited use. Some current limits include:
Service | Free monthly limit |
---|---|
Craiyon | Unlimited |
Midjourney Lite | 25 generations |
DreamStudio | 50 images |
NightCafe | 90 credits (~30 images) |
The free tiers are designed to let you test the capabilities and quality of the different AI image generators before deciding whether to pay for a full subscription.
Are there any other totally free image AI options?
Most of the leading AI image generators require either paid subscriptions, credits, or limited free tiers before paying. But there are a few other options for accessing image AI at no cost:
Runway ML
Runway ML offers free hosting of machine learning models like Stable Diffusion. You can deploy your own Stable Diffusion instance on Runway ML and generate unlimited free images up to 512×512 pixels in size.
Diffuse the Cat Demo
This is a fun demo created by Anthropic to show off image generation capabilities. You can generate unlimited images of cats in different styles and scenarios.
Facebook Make-A-Scene
Meta’s web-based Make-A-Scene demo allows you to freely generate images in an automated storyboard style. The quality is decent though not at the level of leading paid services.
Should you use a free or paid image AI?
Free AI image generators provide an excellent way to test out image generation capabilities at no cost. They can meet many basic image needs. Paid services like DALL-E 2 offer significant advantages in areas like:
- Higher resolution images
- More accurate image generation
- Faster generation speeds
- Tiered pricing for high-volume use
- Unlimited image generations
For professional designers, artists, and marketers, the advanced capabilities of paid services merit the subscription cost. But free generators work well for informal, lower-volume image creation needs.
Are there any risks with free image generators?
While exciting, AI image generators do come with some risks to consider:
- Bias – Models may perpetuate stereotypes from biases in training data.
- NSFW content – Free services have less content moderation, increasing harmful content risks.
- Misinformation – Images may be used to spread false information if appearing factual.
- Intellectual property – Users must ensure they have appropriate rights to generate trademark images.
Staying informed on responsible AI practices can help mitigate these risks when using free image generators.
Key takeaways on free AI image generators
- Craiyon, Midjourney Lite, Stable Diffusion web demos, DreamStudio, and NightCafe offer limited free image generation through subscriptions or credits.
- The free services can create 512×512 or 1024×1024 images based on text prompts in a wide range of categories.
- Expect limited images per month and potentially lower quality than paid generators like DALL-E 2.
- Totally free options include Runway ML, Diffuse the Cat demo, and Meta’s Make-A-Scene.
- Consider whether free generators meet your needs or if paid services like DALL-E 2 are worth the subscription cost.
Conclusion
AI image generation is an exciting new capability unlocking creativity for many different use cases. While leading services like DALL-E 2 and Midjourney require paid subscriptions, there are a variety of free generators to start exploring image AI at no cost. The free services allow limited generations per month but provide an introduction to creating images powered by AI.