7 Best AI Image Generators In 2024 (Free And Paid Tools)

AI image generators are changing how we create visuals. These tools use artificial intelligence to turn text into images, opening up new possibilities for artists, designers, and creators. But with so many tools out there, it can really become challenging to find the best one for your needs?

Luckily, we already did hours of testing and review. And in this guide, we are going to share our top 7 picks for the best AI image generators available in 2024. We'll cover both free and paid options, exploring their features, pros, cons, pricing, and more.

By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly which tool will work best for your needs. So without further ado, let’s jump right into it!

Comparing The Best AI Image Generators Of 2024

7 Best AI Image Generators In 2024

1. Segmind

Our Score: 4.9/5 (Excellent)

Pros:

• Fast image generation.
• High-quality output.
• Flexible API for developers.
• Cost-effective for businesses.

Cons:

• Might be complex for casual users.
• Requires some technical know-how.
• Too many tools can be overwhelming at first.

Key Features:

• Face Swap Free Serverless API - Easily swap faces in images and GIFs without managing servers.
• Stable Diffusion Word to Image model - Turns text into high-quality images quickly.
• Segmind Tiny-SD model - A smaller, faster version for quicker results.
• Segmind-Vega Model - A streamlined version of Stable Diffusion XL, 70% smaller and 100% faster.
• ControlNets And Image Prompt Adapters - Offers greater control over the image generation process and allows fine-tuned adjustments for accurate output matching.
• Image Editing Models - Includes inpainting, outpainting, upscaling, superimposition capabilities all in one platform.
• Fine-tuning Options - Easily train your own model and deploy them with fine-tuning options for latest AI models like Flux.1, and SDXL.
• Custom workflow with PixelFlow - Combine different AI models for complex tasks easily with premade templates. 

Segmind stands out in the AI image generation field with its focus on speed, fine tuning, and flexibility.

It's not just another text-to-image tool—it's a powerful set of AI models and APIs that developers and businesses can use to create custom image generation workflows.

One of its most stand out features is that it tackles most common problems in AI image generation. Many tools are slow or need expensive hardware.

Segmind's models, especially the Tiny-SD and Vega versions, are designed to be fast and efficient. This means you can generate high-quality images without long wait times or huge computing costs.

For businesses and developers, Segmind's approach is really helpful for creating multiple images at scale—with fully customizable workflows.

The serverless APIs make it easy to add AI image generation to your apps or websites without dealing with complex infrastructure.

And the ability to combine different AI models opens up possibilities for creating really unique and tailored image generation systems.

Compared to other tools in our list, Segmind is more than a simple image generator. It's not as straightforward as Midjourney or DALL-E for regular users, but it offers much more power and customization for those willing to dig in.

Pricing:

Segmind offers the most cost-effective and flexible pricing tiers based on usage and needs. You also get a completely FREE plan for hobbyists with up to 100 MB storage and 3 saved workflows.

Paid plans start at just $19 per month for 25 saved workflows and up to 2 GB storage. Plus, you also get dedicated, serverless, and fine tuning options with cost effective pricing tiers for each. Learn more about Segmind’s pricing plans.

2. Adobe Firefly

Our Score: 4.8/5 (Excellent)

Pros:

• User-friendly interface.
• High-quality, realistic outputs.
• Integrates with other Adobe products.
• Strong focus on ethical AI and commercial usage.

Cons:

• Requires Adobe Creative Cloud subscription for full access.
• Limited customization compared to some alternatives.
• New tool, still evolving features.

Key Features:

• Text-to-image generation - Create images from detailed text descriptions.
• Style transfer - Apply artistic styles to existing images.
• Object generation and manipulation - Add or remove elements in images easily.
• Integration with Adobe Creative Suite - Seamless workflow with Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.
• Ethical AI training - Uses only licensed images and Adobe Stock for training data.

Adobe Firefly brings the power of AI image generation to the familiar Adobe ecosystem. It's a tool that feels both innovative and accessible, especially for those already using Adobe products.

What stands out about Firefly is its focus on creating images that are not just high-quality, but also ethically sourced.

Adobe trains Firefly on licensed images and their own Adobe Stock, addressing concerns about AI art and copyright that have been hot topics in the creative community.

The integration with other Adobe tools is a huge plus. If you're a designer or artist already working in the Adobe environment, Firefly fits right into your workflow. You can generate images in Firefly and then refine them in Photoshop or Illustrator without missing a beat.

However, Firefly's strength in the Adobe ecosystem is also its main limitation. To get the most out of it, you really need to be an Adobe Creative Cloud subscriber. This might put it out of reach for casual users or those on a tight budget.

Compared to more open-ended tools like Midjourney or Stable Diffusion, Firefly offers less deep customization. But it makes up for this with its ease of use and the quality of its outputs. The images it produces tend to be more polished and "finished" looking right out of the gate.

For professional creatives, especially those already in the Adobe world, Firefly is a powerful addition to the toolkit. It's not just about generating images – it's about speeding up workflows and expanding creative possibilities within a familiar environment.

Pricing:

Adobe Firefly has a nice free plan for 25 image generations every month. Its paid plans start at just $4.99 per month and you get up to 100 image generation capacity.

Adobe Firefly is also included with Creative Cloud subscriptions, which start at around $59.99/month for individuals. Adobe also offers a free beta version with limited uses, allowing users to try out the tool before committing

3. Midjourney

Our Score: 4.8/5 (Excellent)

Pros:

• Produces stunning, artistic images.
• Active community for inspiration and support.
• Frequent updates and improvements.
• Works through Discord for easy access.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve than some alternatives.
• No free tier (only a trial period).
• Less control over specific image elements.

Key Features:

• Text-to-image generation - Create unique images from detailed text prompts.
• Style mixing - Blend different artistic styles for unique results.
• Variations - Generate multiple versions of an image to explore options.
• Upscaling - Increase image resolution while maintaining quality.
• Community galleries - Browse and get inspired by other users' creations.

Midjourney stands out in the AI image generation world for its ability to create strikingly beautiful, artistic images. It's the go-to tool for many creators looking to generate visuals with a more painterly or illustrative quality.

What sets Midjourney apart is how it interprets prompts. While other tools might give you a more literal interpretation, Midjourney often surprises users with creative and unexpected results. This can be great for sparking new ideas or creating unique artwork, but it might frustrate those looking for more precise control.

The Discord-based interface is both a strength and a weakness. On one hand, it makes Midjourney easily accessible from almost any device.

On the other, it can be confusing for new users who aren't familiar with Discord. The community aspect is a big plus, though. You can see what others are creating in real-time, which is great for inspiration and learning.

Midjourney shines when it comes to creating concept art, illustrations, and abstract imagery. It's less suited for photorealistic images or situations where you need precise control over every element.

For designers, artists, and anyone in creative fields, Midjourney can be an incredible tool for ideation and generating unique visuals.

Compared to tools like Stable Diffusion or DALL-E, Midjourney offers less fine-grained control but often produces more aesthetically pleasing results out of the box. It's not as versatile as Segmind's API-based approach, but for many users, the ease of use and quality of output make it a top choice.

Pricing: Midjourney offers several subscription tiers, starting at $10/month for a basic plan. There's no permanent free tier, but they do offer a trial period to test the service. Higher tiers offer faster image generation and more features.

4. Ideogram

Our Score: 4.5/5 (Very Good)

Pros:

• Specializes in text and logo generation.
• Clean, user-friendly interface.
• Fast generation times.
• Good for creating consistent branding elements.

Cons:

• Limited to specific types of images.
• Fewer customization options than some competitors.
• Smaller user community compared to major platforms.

Key Features:

• Text-to-logo generation - Create unique logos from text descriptions.
• Font synthesis - Generate custom typefaces for branding.
• Style consistency - Maintain a cohesive look across multiple generations.
• Export options - Save designs in various formats for different uses.
• Collaboration tools - Share and iterate on designs with team members.

Ideogram stands out in the AI image generation crowd by focusing on a specific niche: text and logo creation. This specialization makes it a powerful tool for businesses and designers working on branding projects.

The platform's strength lies in its ability to quickly generate professional-looking logos and custom typefaces. This can be a game-changer for small businesses or startups that need quality branding materials but don't have the budget for a professional designer.

Ideogram's user interface is clean and intuitive, making it accessible even for those without design experience. The quick generation times mean you can rapidly iterate through different ideas, which is great for brainstorming sessions or client presentations.

Where Ideogram falls short is in its versatility. If you're looking to create a wide variety of image types, you'll find the platform limiting. It's not designed for generating complex scenes or photorealistic images like some of the more general-purpose tools on this list.

Compared to platforms like Midjourney or Stable Diffusion, Ideogram offers less overall flexibility but provides more focused and consistent results for its specific use case. It's not trying to be an all-in-one solution like Segmind, but rather excels in its chosen niche.

Pricing: Ideogram offers a free tier with limited generations per day (up to 40 images). Paid plans start at around $8/month, offering more daily generations, priority processing, and additional features. They also have team and enterprise options for larger organizations.

5. Jumpstory

Our Score: 4.3/5 (Good)

Pros:

• Huge library of AI-enhanced stock photos.
• Simple editing tools for customization.
• Legal compliance features for commercial use.
• Integrates with popular design tools.

Cons:

• Less focus on pure AI generation.
• Limited advanced editing capabilities.
• Might not suit those needing highly specific or unique images.

Key Features:

• AI-powered image search - Find relevant images quickly using natural language.
• One-click background removal - Easily isolate subjects for diverse uses.
• Text overlay tools - Add and customize text on images directly in the platform.
• Color editing - Adjust image colors to match your brand or preferences.
• Commercial usage - Use images worry-free for commercial usage.

Jumpstory takes a different approach to AI image generation. Instead of creating images from scratch, it uses AI to enhance and customize existing high-quality stock photos. This makes it an interesting hybrid solution for those who need professional-looking images quickly.

The platform's strength is its vast library of images, combined with AI-powered search capabilities.

You can find relevant photos using natural language descriptions, which saves time compared to traditional stock photo sites. The simple editing tools let you customize images to fit your needs without leaving the platform.

One standout feature is the focus on legal compliance. All images come with commercial licenses, and the platform helps ensure you're using them correctly. This can be a big relief for businesses worried about copyright issues.

Jumpstory integrates well with popular design tools like Canva and Adobe Creative Suite, making it easy to incorporate into existing workflows. However, it's not the best choice if you're looking to create truly unique or highly specific images from scratch.

Compared to pure AI generation tools like Midjourney, Jumpstory offers less creative freedom but provides a faster path to usable, professional images. It's more similar to traditional stock photo sites but with added AI capabilities for search and editing.

Pricing: Jumpstory offers several subscription tiers, typically starting around $25/month for individual users. Higher tiers include more downloads, team collaboration features, and API access. They often have promotional offers for new users.

6. Leonardo AI

Our Score: 4.7/5 (Very Good)

Pros:

• Powerful AI model with high-quality outputs.
• Customizable workflows for different needs.
• Good balance of features for both beginners and advanced users.
• Regular updates and new model releases.

Cons:

• Learning curve for advanced features.
• Can be resource-intensive for complex tasks.
• Pricing might be high for casual users.

Key Features:

• Advanced text-to-image generation - Create detailed images from text prompts.
• Custom model fine-tuning - Train the AI on specific styles or subjects.
• Image-to-image transformation - Modify existing images using AI.
• Inpainting and outpainting - Edit specific parts of images or expand their boundaries.
• Collaboration tools - Share projects and work together with team members.

Leonardo AI is a versatile platform that caters to a wide range of users, from hobbyists to professional artists and designers. 

It offers a good balance of powerful features and user-friendliness, making it a strong contender in the AI image generation space.

One of Leonardo AI's standout features is its custom model fine-tuning capability. This allows users to train the AI on specific styles or subjects, resulting in more tailored and consistent outputs. For businesses or artists looking to develop a unique visual style, this feature can be invaluable.

The platform also excels in its image editing capabilities. The inpainting and outpainting tools are particularly useful for refining generated images or adapting existing artwork. 

This makes Leonardo AI a good choice for those who want to combine AI generation with more traditional digital art techniques.

Leonardo AI's regular updates and new model releases keep it at the forefront of AI image technology. However, this can also mean a steeper learning curve as new features are introduced. The platform might be overkill for casual users who just need simple image generation.

Compared to more specialized tools like Ideogram or Jumpstory, Leonardo AI offers broader capabilities but requires more investment to master. It's closer to Stable Diffusion in terms of flexibility, but with a more polished user interface.

Pricing: Leonardo AI offers a free tier with limited generations. Paid plans start around $9/month for individuals, with higher tiers offering more generations, faster processing, and advanced features. They also have team and enterprise options for larger organizations.

7. Dreamstudio

Our Score: 4.6/5 (Very Good)

Pros:

• User-friendly interface for Stable Diffusion.
• High-quality image outputs.
• Regular updates with new models and features.
• Flexible credit system for different usage levels.

Cons:

• Can be expensive for high-volume use.
• Less customizable than open-source Stable Diffusion.
• Limited advanced features compared to some competitors.

Key Features:

• Text-to-image generation - Create images from detailed text descriptions.
• Image-to-image editing - Modify existing images using AI suggestions.
• Multiple AI models - Choose from different Stable Diffusion versions for varied results.
• Prompt library - Access pre-made prompts to help kickstart your creations.
• Easy sharing and exporting - Save and share your generated images in various formats.

Dreamstudio is essentially a user-friendly interface built on top of the Stable Diffusion AI model. It makes the power of Stable Diffusion accessible to those who might be intimidated by setting up and running the open-source version themselves.

The platform's strength lies in its simplicity and the quality of its outputs. The interface is clean and intuitive, allowing users to start generating images quickly without a steep learning curve. The results are generally high-quality, on par with what you'd expect from Stable Diffusion.

Dreamstudio regularly updates its available models, giving users access to the latest improvements in the Stable Diffusion ecosystem. The prompt library is a helpful feature for beginners, providing inspiration and a starting point for creating images.

However, the simplicity of Dreamstudio can be limiting for more advanced users. It doesn't offer the same level of customization and control as running Stable Diffusion locally or using more developer-focused platforms like Segmind.

The credit-based pricing system is flexible but can become expensive for high-volume use. This makes Dreamstudio a good choice for casual users or small businesses, but potentially less cost-effective for large-scale projects.

Compared to other tools in this list, Dreamstudio sits somewhere between the user-friendliness of Midjourney and the power of open-source Stable Diffusion.

It's not as specialized as tools like Ideogram or Jumpstory, offering a more general-purpose image generation solution.

Pricing: Dreamstudio uses a credit-based system. New users get some free credits to start (up to 100 free credits which is enough for 500 image generations).

After that, you can buy credit packs starting from about $10. The cost per image varies depending on the settings used, but generally ranges from a few cents to about $0.50 per image.

What Are AI Image Generators?

AI image generators are cutting-edge tools that create images from text descriptions or modify existing images using artificial intelligence. These powerful systems have revolutionized the way we create and edit visual content.

At their core, AI image generators use complex machine learning models trained on vast datasets of images and text.

When you input a text description, the AI analyzes it and generates an image that matches your words. It's like having a highly skilled artist who can instantly bring your ideas to life.

But why do you need them? AI image generators offer several key benefits:

1. Speed: They can create images in seconds, saving hours of manual design work.
2. Creativity: They can generate unique ideas and visual concepts you might not have thought of.
3. Accessibility: You don't need advanced art skills to create professional-looking visuals.
4. Customization: Many tools allow you to refine and adjust the generated images.
5. Cost-effectiveness: They can reduce the need for expensive stock photos or custom illustrations.

Are they worth it? For many users, absolutely. Whether you're a marketer needing fresh content for social media, a game developer creating concept art, or a writer wanting to visualize your stories, AI image generators can be incredibly valuable.

These tools are especially useful for:

• Brainstorming and ideation
• Creating mockups and prototypes
• Generating custom illustrations for content
• Designing unique logos and branding elements
• Enhancing and modifying existing images

However, it's important to note that AI image generators aren't perfect. They may sometimes produce unexpected or irrelevant results, and there are ongoing discussions about copyright and ethical use.

But as the technology improves, these tools are becoming increasingly powerful and reliable.

How To Choose The Best AI Image Generator?

Picking the right AI image generator depends on your specific needs. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Image quality: Look at sample outputs from each tool. Does the quality match your expectations?
2. Ease of use: Is the interface user-friendly? Can you start creating images quickly without a steep learning curve?
3. Customization options: How much control do you have over the final image? Can you refine and adjust results?
4. Speed: How quickly can the tool generate images? This is especially important for high-volume needs.
5. Integration capabilities: If you need to use the tool in your workflow, check if it offers APIs or plugins.
6. Cost: Consider your budget and the pricing model. Some tools charge per image, others offer subscriptions.
7. Specialization: Some generators excel at specific types of images (e.g., portraits, landscapes). Choose one that aligns with your needs.
8. Community and support: A strong user community can be valuable for tips and troubleshooting.
9. Regular updates: AI technology evolves rapidly. Choose a tool that's frequently updated with new features and improvements.

Remember, the "best" tool varies based on your specific needs. A professional artist might prioritize customization, while a marketing team might value speed and ease of use. Consider trying free trials when available to find the best fit for you.

Essential AI Image Generator Features

When evaluating AI image generators, look for these key features:

1. Text-to-image generation: This is the core feature. It should create images based on your text descriptions.
2. Image editing tools: Look for features like inpainting (editing specific parts of an image) and outpainting (extending an image beyond its original borders).
3. Style controls: The ability to specify art styles, mediums, or mimic specific artists can be very useful.
4. Resolution options: Higher resolution outputs are crucial for professional use.
5. Negative prompts: The ability to specify what you don't want in the image can greatly improve results.
6. Seed control: This allows you to recreate or iterate on specific images.
7. Batch processing: Generating multiple images at once can save time.
8. Model selection: Some platforms offer different AI models optimized for various tasks.
9. Prompt history: Saving and reusing successful prompts can streamline your workflow.
10. Export options: Look for the ability to save in various file formats and resolutions.

Ease Of Use

A user-friendly interface is crucial, especially if you're new to AI image generation. Look for:

• Clear, intuitive controls
• Good default settings that produce quality results
• Helpful tooltips or built-in guides
• A gallery of example images with their prompts
• The ability to save and organize your creations

Remember, a tool with a ton of features isn't helpful if you can't figure out how to use them. Many professional-grade tools have a steeper learning curve but offer more control.

Our Selection Criteria

To help you pick the best software we followed a rigorous selection methodology that involved following scoring criteria for each software:

Image Quality (25%): This is the most important factor. We looked for tools that consistently produce clear, detailed, and visually appealing images.

Ease of Use (20%): A good AI image generator should be accessible to both beginners and experts. We favored tools with intuitive interfaces and helpful features like preset styles or prompt suggestions.

Customization Options (20%): The ability to fine-tune and control the output is crucial for many users. We looked for tools that offer detailed controls over aspects like style, composition, and specific image elements.

Speed and Efficiency (15%): Faster generation times and the ability to create multiple variations quickly can significantly improve workflow.

Value for Money (10%): We considered the balance between features offered and cost, including free tiers and trial options.

Integration Capabilities (5%): For professional users, the ability to integrate the tool into existing workflows through APIs or plugins is important.

Community and Support (5%): A strong user community and good customer support can enhance the user experience and help troubleshoot issues.

Free AI Image Generators vs. Paid AI Image Generators

Both free and paid AI image generators have their place. Let's break down the pros and cons:

Free AI Image Generators

Pros:

• No cost barrier to entry
• Great for experimentation and learning
• Often open-source, allowing for customization
• Community-driven improvements

Cons:

• Limited features and customization options
• Lower image quality or resolution caps
• Usage limits (e.g., number of generations per day)
• May lack customer support
• Potential legal uncertainties for commercial use

Paid AI Image Generators

Pros:

• Higher image quality and resolution
• More advanced features and control
• Faster generation times
• Better customer support
• Clear terms for commercial usage
• Regular updates and improvements

Cons:

• Ongoing cost
• Can be expensive for high-volume use
• May require a learning curve to utilize fully

Which One Is Better?

It mainly depends on your needs.

For hobbyists, students, or those just exploring AI art, free tools are a great starting point. They let you experiment without financial commitment. Tools like the open-source version of Stable Diffusion are powerful and flexible, especially if you're technically inclined.

For professionals, businesses, or serious creators, paid tools often provide better value. The improved quality, features, and usage clarity are worth the cost if you're using the tool regularly or for commercial projects.

For instance, consider this:

1. A student working on a personal project might be well-served by a free tool like the basic version of Stable Diffusion.
2. A small business owner creating marketing materials would likely benefit from a paid tool like Midjourney or Adobe Firefly, which offer high-quality outputs and clear commercial terms.
3. A game development studio might invest in a more powerful paid solution like Segmind or Leonardo AI for their customization options and API access.
4. A casual user making memes or social media posts could start with free tools and upgrade to a low-cost paid option if they need more features.

Remember, many paid tools offer free trials. It's worth testing both free and paid options to see which fits your workflow best. Your choice might also evolve as your needs change or as you become more experienced with AI image generation.

Top 7 Tips To Use AI Image Generators The Right Way

Now, let explore some tips that will help you make the most of the AI generator tools and enhance your image creation capabilities:

1. Master prompt engineering: Your results are only as good as your prompts. Learn to be specific, use descriptive language, and experiment with different phrasings. For example, instead of "a cat", try "a fluffy orange tabby cat sitting on a windowsill at sunset".
2. Understand style keywords: Many AI generators respond to style cues like "digital art", "oil painting", or "photorealistic". Use these to guide the overall look of your image.
3. Utilize negative prompts: Tell the AI what you don't want in the image. This can help avoid common issues like extra limbs or distorted features.
4. Iterate and refine: Don't expect perfection on the first try. Generate multiple versions and use each result to refine your prompt.
5. Combine AI with manual editing: Use AI-generated images as a starting point, then refine them with traditional editing tools for the best results.
6. Stay informed about model updates: AI image generators are constantly improving. Keep an eye out for new features or models that might enhance your work.

Final Thoughts

AI image generators have revolutionized the way we create visual content. They offer unprecedented speed and creativity, opening up new possibilities for artists, designers, marketers, as well as hobbyists.

When choosing an AI image generator, consider your specific needs:

• For quick, high-quality images, Midjourney or DALL-E might be your best bet.
• If you need deep customization and integration, look at Segmind or Stable Diffusion.
• For user-friendly options, Adobe Firefly or Dreamstudio could be great choices.

Remember, the best tool for you depends on your skill level, budget, and specific use case. Don't be afraid to try out multiple options—many offer free tiers or trials.

As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect even more impressive and user-friendly image generation tools in the future. Stay curious, keep experimenting, and you'll find endless creative possibilities with these powerful AI tools.

Ready to start creating? Enjoy playing around with our latest Segmind models for text-to-image generation, image-to-image, fine tuning, and more!