Artificial Intelligence has revolutionized the way we edit and enhance images. One of the most useful applications of AI in this field is image upscaling. An AI image upscaler is a tool that increases the resolution of an image while maintaining its quality.
This is particularly useful when working with images that need to be enlarged or printed. In this article, we will explore the best AI image upscalers available in the market today. But before we get to that…
Why use an AI image upscaler?
Using AI image upscaling can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Enhanced Image Quality: AI upscaling algorithms utilize machine learning techniques to analyze low-resolution images and generate higher-resolution versions. This process can significantly enhance the overall image quality, making it sharper, clearer, and more detailed.
- Preserve Details: When enlarging low-resolution images, traditional upscaling methods often result in pixelation and loss of details. AI upscaling algorithms, on the other hand, employ sophisticated pattern recognition to intelligently fill in missing information and preserve important details, such as textures, edges, and fine features.
- Print and Display Purposes: Upscaled images are particularly useful for printing and display purposes, such as posters, banners, or large digital screens. By enlarging the image using AI upscaling, you can maintain image clarity and ensure a visually appealing output.
- Image Restoration: AI upscaling techniques can also be used for image restoration tasks. If you have old, damaged, or low-quality images that you want to improve, AI upscaling can help to recover lost details, reduce noise, and restore the overall appearance of the image.
- Content Creation and Design: AI upscaling can aid content creators and designers in various ways. For example, if you’re working on a project that requires high-quality visuals or need to incorporate low-resolution assets into your design, AI upscaling can help enhance the images and maintain consistency in the overall aesthetic.
It’s worth noting that while AI upscaling can significantly improve the visual quality of low-resolution images, it cannot create new information that doesn’t exist in the original image. The results may vary depending on the specific algorithm and the quality of the input image.
At a glance: AI Image upscaler price comparison chart
Image Upscalers | Price | Free Option? |
Topaz Gigapixel AI | One time fee of $99 | Yes |
Let’s enhance | Starts from $9/month for 100 credits | Yes |
AI image enlarger | Starts from $4.90/month for 100 credits | Yes |
A Sharper Scaling | Free forever | Yes |
Adobe Photoshop | Starts from $20.99/month | Yes |
Pixelcut | Starts from $9.99 | Yes |
VanceAI | Starts from $4.95/month for 100 credits | No |
DeepImage AI | Starts from $7.50/month | Yes |
Adobe FireFly | Starts from $4.99/month for 100 credits | Yes |
Zyro AI | Free forever | Yes |
10 AI image upscaler tools
1. Topaz Gigapixel AI
Topaz Gigapixel AI is a popular image upscaler that uses machine learning algorithms to analyze the image and enhance it using deep learning techniques.
The software can upscale images up to 600%, producing stunning results with sharp details and vivid colors. Topaz Gigapixel AI also includes features like noise reduction and color adjustment to produce professional-quality images.
Topaz Gigapixel AI Pros:
- High-quality upscaling with preserved details.
- Customizable settings for noise reduction, sharpness, and detail enhancement.
- Batch processing capability for multiple images.
- User-friendly interface.
- Can be used as a standalone application or plugin.
Topaz Gigapixel AI Cons:
- Processing time can be lengthy.
- Requires a powerful computer for optimal performance.
- Cost of the software may be a deterrent.
Pricing
Free trial available, or $99.99 to purchase.
2. Let’s Enhance
Let’s Enhance is a user-friendly and affordable image upscaling software that uses machine learning algorithms to produce high-quality images. The software has a range of features like batch processing and background removal, making it a popular choice for photographers and graphic designers.
Let’s Enhance is also available as an online service, making it accessible to users from all over the world.
Let’s Enhance Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Fast processing times.
- Automatic image enhancement.
- Batch processing capability.
- Web-based platform for accessibility.
Let’s Enhance Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Variability in image quality.
- Subscription-based pricing.
Pricing
Free plan gives you 10 credits per month, paid plans start from $9/month for 100 credits.
3. AI Image Enlarger
AI Image Enlarger is another popular AI-powered image upscaler that uses deep learning algorithms to enhance the quality of images. The software can upscale images up to 800% without losing quality, making it a great option for photographers and designers who need to work with high-resolution images.
AI Image Enlarger also includes features like color correction and denoising to produce stunning results.
AI Image Enlarger Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Fast processing times.
- High-quality upscaling.
- Batch processing capability.
- Web-based platform for accessibility.
AI Image Enlarger Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Variable results based on image quality and content.
- Output quality limitations.
Pricing
Free plan gives you 10 credits per month, paid plans start from $4.90/month for 100 credits
4. A Sharper Scaling
A Sharper Scaling is a free image upscaling software that uses a unique algorithm to produce high-quality images. The software works by analyzing the image and using an adaptive filter to enhance the details and sharpness.
A Sharper Scaling can upscale images up to 200% without losing quality, making it a great option for users who need to upscale images for web use or small prints.
A Sharper Scaling Pros:
- Focuses on preserving sharpness.
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Fast processing.
- Standalone application for privacy.
A Sharper Scaling Cons:
- Limited customization options.
- Output resolution limitations.
- Possibility of artifacts and noise.
Pricing
Free forever plan
5. Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is one of the most popular image editing software used by photographers and designers worldwide. The latest version of Adobe Photoshop includes an AI-powered upscaling feature called “Super Resolution.”
This feature uses machine learning algorithms to enhance the details and resolution of the image while preserving its quality. While Adobe Photoshop is a bit expensive, it is an excellent option for professional photographers and designers.
Photoshop AI Upscaling Pros:
- Familiarity and integration for existing Photoshop users.
- Customization options for tailored upscaling.
- Creative control over the upscaling process.
- Access to a wide range of editing tools for further enhancements.
Photoshop AI Upscaling Cons:
- Limited AI-specific upscaling capabilities compared to dedicated tools.
- Steeper learning curve for new users.
Pricing
Paid plans start from $20.99/month
6. Pixelcut
Pixelcut is a user-friendly, web-based tool that offers a range of image enhancement features, including image upscaling. This free service allows users to easily upload photos and increase their resolution.
The clean and intuitive interface simplifies the upscaling process, providing a preview of the final result. Users can conveniently download their upscaled images in standard or high-definition resolutions directly from the platform.
Additionally, Pixelcut’s editor offers post-production capabilities such as text addition and background editing, making it a valuable solution for those seeking a straightforward and efficient AI image upscaling tool for their photo editing requirements.
Pros
- User-Friendly: Pixelcut offers a simple and intuitive user interface, making it accessible for a wide range of users.
- Range of Enlargement Options: It provides users with the flexibility to upscale images by 2x, 4x, 6x, and 8x, catering to various needs.
- Image Quality Preservation: Pixelcut’s AI technology focuses on maintaining image quality during the upscaling process.
- Post-Processing Tools: In addition to upscaling, Pixelcut offers a suite of post-production tools for further image enhancement.
Cons
- Speed on Older Devices: Pixelcut may experience reduced speed on older or less powerful devices, which can impact the user experience.
- Limited Free Credits: Users are restricted to three free image upscalings per month, potentially requiring a paid plan for more frequent use.
Pricing
Free plan available, paid plans start at $9.99 per month
7. VanceAI
With VanceAI, you can seamlessly scale your images to various magnifications while preserving the image quality. This versatile tool is suitable for a wide range of applications, from online store images to PowerPoint presentations and print materials.
In addition to its image upscaling capabilities, VanceAI offers a suite of other image enhancement tools, including sharpening, retouching, enhancing, and dehazing, among others.
Utilizing advanced AI upscaling technology, VanceAI employs generative adversarial networks to intelligently analyze and enlarge images, delivering highly realistic details, vibrant colors, and clear, professional results.
Pros:
- Diverse Image Enhancement Tools: VanceAI offers a comprehensive suite of image enhancement tools, including upscaling, sharpening, retouching, enhancing, and dehazing, among others.
- Image Upscaling: The platform excels in upscaling images, providing options for various magnifications without compromising quality.
- Accessibility: VanceAI can be used both online and as a desktop application, catering to a wide range of user preferences.
- Industry-Specific Presets: VanceAI includes presets tailored for real estate and product photos, making it a valuable tool for professionals in these fields.
Cons:
- Limited Free Credits: The availability of free credits is limited to three per month, which may necessitate the purchase of additional credits for frequent use.
- Potential Quality Variability: The quality of upscaled images may not always be consistent, and results may vary. Users might need to fine-tune settings for the best outcome.
Pricing
Pricing starts from $4.95 for 100 credits
8. Deepimage AI
DeepImage AI is an AI-powered online image upscaling tool designed to cater to the specific requirements of real estate professionals, eCommerce businesses, and photographers.
This versatile platform offers both an online interface and an API, making it accessible for developers to integrate its image-enhancing capabilities into their applications. Notably, DeepImage AI provides predefined presets tailored for real estate and product photos, streamlining the editing process for professionals in these industries.
Pros
- It provides both an online tool and an API, making it versatile for a range of users, including developers.
- Users can enhance multiple images simultaneously, speeding up the editing workflow.
- Tailored for the specific needs of real estate professionals and eCommerce businesses.
Cons
- May not be as versatile for users in other industries or with different image enhancement needs.
Pricing:
Free trial available, paid plans start from $7.50/month for 100 credits
9. Adobe Firefly
Adobe Firefly, an advanced AI image upscaling platform, employs cutting-edge deep learning techniques to enhance image resolution and quality.
The process begins by analyzing the input image, identifying key features and patterns. Then, utilizing sophisticated neural networks, it intelligently generates new pixels and details to upscale the image without compromising its visual integrity.
The result is a high-resolution image that maintains sharpness, clarity, and realistic details, making it a valuable tool for photographers, designers, and digital artists looking to enhance their visual content.
Pros:
- Advanced AI Technology: Adobe Firefly utilizes state-of-the-art AI algorithms to upscale images, ensuring high-quality results.
- Preserves Image Quality: It enhances image resolution without sacrificing the integrity of the original image, maintaining sharpness and detail.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for photographers, designers, and digital artists seeking to improve their visual content.
- User-Friendly: The platform is designed for ease of use, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons:
- Cost: Depending on the licensing model, Adobe Firefly may come with a subscription fee, which can be a drawback for some users.
- Internet Dependency: If Adobe Firefly is a cloud-based service, it may require a stable internet connection, which can be limiting for users in areas with unreliable connectivity.
Pricing
Pricing starts from $4.99/month for 100 credits
10. Zyro AI image upscaler
Zyro is an online image upscaling tool that harnesses the power of deep convolutional neural networks, and it’s available for free. With extensive training on large datasets of images, Zyro demonstrates an impressive ability to accurately analyze and enhance a wide range of image types.
It stands out for its intelligent object recognition capabilities, automatically refining image details during the upscaling process. The result is not only a larger image but also a more lifelike representation of the objects within your images.
Pros:
- Deep Learning Technology: Zyro AI leverages deep convolutional neural networks for image upscaling, ensuring advanced image analysis and processing.
- Object Recognition: The platform intelligently recognizes objects in images and enhances them during upscaling, resulting in more realistic representations.
- Accessibility: Zyro AI is available online for free, making it a convenient option for users seeking image upscaling without the need for software downloads or installations.
- Versatile Image Handling: Zyro can analyze and process a wide variety of image types, making it suitable for various applications.
Cons:
- Limited File Format Support: Zyro AI is restricted to .jpeg and .png image formats, potentially excluding users with other image file types.
- Variable Image Quality: Users may experience inconsistent image quality in the upscaled results, with the output quality not always being stable or uniform.
Pricing
Free forever plan
What else can you do with AI and photos?
AI has a wide range of applications when it comes to working with photos. Here are some notable use cases:
- AI filters: AI filters can be applied in real time or during post-processing, and they are designed to alter the appearance of content by adding various effects, augmentations, or transformations.
- Image Generation: AI models, such as generative adversarial networks (GANs), can generate new and realistic images based on existing data. This technology has applications in areas like content creation, virtual reality, and gaming.
- AI art generator from photo: These generators employ deep learning techniques, particularly generative adversarial networks (GANs), to analyze the content and style of a given photo and generate a new image that resembles a work of art.
- AI Photo Generators: These generators can create entirely new images that are indistinguishable from real photographs, even though they are generated by AI algorithms rather than captured by a camera.
These are just a few examples of what AI can do with photos (check out more examples of AI here!).
AI’s capabilities in image processing and analysis continue to evolve, offering new possibilities and applications in fields like photography, design, healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and more.
Faqs about AI image upscalers
1. What is an AI image upscaler, and how does it work?
An AI image upscaler is a tool that uses artificial intelligence, particularly deep learning algorithms, to increase the resolution and quality of digital images. It works by analyzing the existing image and generating new pixels or details to make the image appear larger and more detailed while preserving its visual integrity.
2. Are there free AI image upscaling tools available, or do I need to pay for them?
There are both free and paid AI image upscaling tools available. Some platforms offer basic upscaling features for free, while others may provide more advanced capabilities with a paid subscription or one-time purchase.
3. Can AI upscalers increase the resolution of old or low-quality images?
Yes, AI upscalers are particularly useful for enhancing the resolution of old or low-quality images. They can effectively improve the clarity and detail of such images.
4. What types of image file formats are typically supported by AI upscalers?
AI upscalers often support common image formats like .jpeg and .png. The supported formats may vary depending on the specific platform.
5. Are there any limitations or downsides to using AI image upscaling technology?
Some limitations may include potential variations in output quality, depending on the source material and upscaling settings. Additionally, not all AI upscalers support all image formats, and free usage may be limited in terms of credits or image sizes.
6. How do I choose the right AI upscaling tool for my specific needs?
To choose the right AI upscaling tool, consider factors like your intended use (e.g., professional photography, real estate, or general image enhancement), your budget, and the specific features you require. Reading user reviews and conducting trials can help you make an informed decision.
7. Are there AI upscaling solutions specifically designed for certain industries or applications?
Yes, some AI upscaling platforms are tailored for specific industries, such as real estate, eCommerce, or photography. They may offer presets and features designed to meet the needs of professionals in those fields.
8. Can AI image upscalers enhance the quality of videos, or are they primarily for images?
While AI image upscalers primarily focus on images, there are AI-driven tools designed for video upscaling and enhancement as well.
9. Are there any legal or ethical considerations when using AI upscalers for image enhancement?
Legal and ethical considerations may arise, especially when using AI to enhance images of people or objects without proper consent. It’s essential to respect privacy and intellectual property rights when using such technology.
10. What are some best practices for achieving optimal results when using AI image upscalers?
To achieve the best results, ensure you have a high-quality source image, adjust upscaling settings as needed, and carefully review the output to ensure it meets your requirements. Experimenting with different tools and settings can help you find the best approach for your specific images.
Final thoughts
AI image upscalers are an excellent tool for photographers, graphic designers, and artists who need to work with high-resolution images. The software mentioned above uses advanced machine learning algorithms to enhance the quality and resolution of images, producing stunning results that were not possible before.
While some of these software can be expensive, there are also affordable options available that provide excellent results. When selecting an AI image upscaler, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and the features that the software provides.
Regardless of the software you choose, an AI image upscaler will help you achieve professional-quality images with sharp details and vivid colors.