Best AI image generator 2025
Being behind major reports like The Mother of All Breaches and RockYou2024, our in-house cybersecurity experts and journalists provide unbiased, real-world testing and in-depth analysis.
We maintain complete transparency by openly sharing our testing methodologies with our audience.
Learn more
AI has become an integral part of everyday workflows, with millions now using AI tools to accomplish a variety of tasks. From generating text to creating videos, these tools are versatile and accessible. One of the most popular use cases of AI is AI-powered image generation. More people are turning to AI image generators for their graphic needs, and the reason is clear: they are faster, easier, and more affordable to use.
However, not all AI image generators deliver the same quality, and if you choose the wrong tool, you might end up with disappointing results. That’s why the Cybernews research team and I have done extensive research and comparative analysis to help you find the best AI image generators on the market. Read on to find out which ones stood out and why.
Best AI image generator - shortlist
- Pippit AI – best for creating branding and marketing images
- Picsart – best for precise AI image creation
- Deep Art Effects – best for transforming photos into artistic images
- Shutterstock AI – best for high-quality stock images
- Getimg AI – best for bulk image creation
- DALL-E 3 – best for realistic and imaginative images
- Leonardo AI – best for fast image generation
The best AI image generators compared
To compare the AI image generators above, I’ve created this table highlighting key features like their starting price, output speed, accessibility, quality, and free version. This way, you can make an informed choice.
| AI image generator | Best for | Starting price | Output speed | Accessibility | Quality | Free version | Primary AI model |
| Pippit AI | Creating branding and marketing images | $25.99/month ($19.99/month for new users | Fast | Web-based | High | Yes (with free access to all features during the beta period) | Proprietary (not disclosed) |
| Picsart | Precise AI image creation | $5/month | Fast | Web-based and app | High | Yes (limited functionality and credits), includes in-app purchases | Uses 4 AI models:FluxIdeogram 3.0RecraftDall-E |
| Deep Art Effects | Transforming photos into stylized artwork | $2.99/month (iOS), $9.90/month (desktop) | Moderate | Web-based and app | Medium | Yes (limited, watermarked) | Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) |
| Shutterstock AI | Creating and customizing stock images with licensing rights | $7.00/month | Moderate | Web-based | Medium | No | DALL·E 3 (Transformer-based Model) |
| Getimg AI | Bulk image generation for digital projects | $12.00/month | Fast | Web-based | High | Yes (limited, watermarked) | Stable Diffusion (Latent Diffusion Models) |
| DALL·E 3 | Realism and detail, ChatGPT integration | $20.00/month | Fast | Web-based and app | High | Yes (via Bing, watermarked) | Transformer Architecture |
| Leonardo AI | High-quality, real-time design | $12.00/month | Fast | Web-based and app | High | Yes (limited) | Latent Diffusion Models |
The best 7 AI image generator – our detailed list
This section will provide you with in-depth reviews of the best AI image generators.
I highlight the top AI image generators and assess these products in detail so you know what to expect.
1. Pippit AI – best AI image generator for creating branding and marketing images
| Starting price: | $25.99/month ($19.99/month for new users) |
| Best for: | Creating branding and marketing images |
| Free version: | Yes (free access to all features during the beta period) |
| Top features: | AI-powered image studio, batch image creation, full artistic control |
Pippit AI is my top choice because it is more than just an image generator. Aside from producing high-quality images quickly and with ease, it is also an all-in-one platform that supports multiple stages of digital content creation. Pippit is designed to streamline the entire content creation process, including creation, editing, publishing, and performance analysis.
Pippit AI also offers hundreds of templates you can use as a starting point or creativity boost when creating your images. It is perfect for a wide range of use cases, but its abilities shine best when users employ it for marketing and e-commerce purposes.
Features
Pippit AI’s AI text-to-image generator allows you to generate high-quality images within seconds. It has an image studio where you choose from hundreds of stock starter images or upload your existing photo as a starting point.
Pippit AI has a batch edit feature that allows you to edit up to 50 images simultaneously. It also has a poster tool that allows you to describe the theme, background, style, and more for whatever you want to generate.
Pricing
Pippit AI offers a 30-day free trial with full access to all tools. After the trial ends, paid plans start at $25.99/month ($19.99/month for new users). Annual plans are available at a discounted rate of approximately $24.17/month.
User Reviews
Based on reviews, users seem to like Pippit AI’s ease of use and its applications in marketing and advertising. Some other reviews highlight the AI image generator’s digital avatar feature, stating it boosts the speed and quality of marketing video creation. However, some users noted that they would love to see Pippit AI integrated into the full CapCut suite before upgrading to paid plans.
Verdict
I recommend Pippit AI for social media content creators and members of product marketing teams. Its large number of templates for inspiration, easy image generation, and flexibility make it an essential part of every marketing process. The tool also has step-by-step tutorials, making it perfect for total design beginners.
2. Picsart - best AI image generator for precise AI image creation
| Starting price: | $5/month |
| Best for: | Precise AI image creation |
| Free version: | Yes (limited functionality and credits), includes in-app purchases |
| Top features: | 60+ artistic styles, high-resolution output, AI-powered editing tools |
Picsart is one of the most popular AI image generators on the market, and with good reason. This platform combines an intelligent text-to-image generation engine with several quality AI image editing tools to optimize image creation. It also doubles as one of the easiest AI image generators to use, making it accessible to beginners and professionals alike.
Features
Picsart’s AI image generator tool allows you to create high-quality images with the simplest of prompts. Additionally, you can specify keywords in your prompts, such as your non-negotiable style, color, and mood, to produce precise images. There is also an Advanced Settings feature that you can use to switch between different AI image generator models for better image creation.
In addition, the AI image generator comes with over 50 styles you can use to edit your creations. There is also the option of creating your own custom style.
Pricing
Picsart’s pricing structure starts at a $5/month plan, which offers 200 credits and other perks like millions of stock photos, 5GB of cloud storage, and more. The number of credits and additional perks increases with higher-priced plans.
User Reviews
Feedback from users is mainly positive, with many people appreciating Picsart’s variety of tools and its ease of use. Reviews from other users indicate they like the price-feature balance. However, some reviews indicate that users find the Pro plan to be a bit too expensive. Others have also indicated that they dislike the frequent ad interruptions that come with the free version.
Verdict
Overall, I recommend Picsart for those looking for an AI image generator that offers a lot of creative flexibility and control. The feature that allows you to switch between AI generator models is perfect for boosting creative precision and freedom. Additionally, the interface is smooth and easy to use, making it ideal for complete beginners.
3. Deep Art Effects – best AI image generator for transforming photos into art
| Starting price: | $2.99/month (iOS app), $9.90/month (desktop) |
| Best for: | Transforming photos into stylized artwork |
| Free version: | Yes (limited functionality with watermarked images), includes in-app purchases |
| Top features: | AI-powered style transfer, offline desktop processing, custom art styles |
Founded by a German company in 2016, Deep Art Effects is one of my top picks, thanks to its advanced, user-friendly technology. This AI image generator (available on desktop and mobile) allows you to turn photos into art using AI-powered style transfer technology.
Features
Deep Art Effects draws on styles from over 120 famous artists, including Picasso and Van Gogh. I like that the tool leverages neural AI networks rather than basic filters to deliver this intricate artistic detail.
Its key features include an offline mode for desktop users, which enables high-powered processing without dependency on the cloud while storing images locally to ensure privacy and data security. What really sets this tool apart is its unique functions, such as auto-colorizing black-and-white images, 4x image scaling without quality loss, and selective background removal.
Businesses and developers can integrate Deep Art Effects’ powerful filters via API, which is supported by SDKs for Java, .NET, iOS, and Android.
Pricing
Deep Art Effects has free and premium plans, with premium users gaining access to full HD quality, watermark removal, and exclusive weekly styles. The desktop version of this AI image generator costs $9.90 monthly or $129.00 as a one-time purchase. The iOS app starts at $2.99/month or $34.99 annually, and ultra HD image downloads are available for $1.99.
User reviews
User feedback on Deep Art Effects is generally positive, with many praising the app’s ability to quickly create stunning, high-quality artistic images. However, some users note that the mobile app could be improved. The desktop version, however, is praised for its straightforward installation, including video tutorials.
Verdict
I highly recommend Deep Art Effects to artists, photographers, and creative professionals who are seeking a tool that goes beyond regular photo editing.
4. Shutterstock AI – best AI image generator for high-quality stock images
| Starting price: | $7.00/month (web-based only) |
| Best for: | Creating and customizing stock images with licensing rights |
| Free version: | No, subscription-only |
| Top features: | DALL E 3 integration, custom stock edits, ethical contributor compensation |
Shutterstock AI was built in partnership with OpenAI and is backed by Shutterstock’s 700-million-item library. This gives it powerful AI image creation and editing abilities.
It is also a part of the Shutterstock Creative Flow. This means it seamlessly unites image search, creation, and editing. If you want to generate and license images quickly and easily, then Shutterstock AI is perfect for you.
Features
You can use text prompts to create stock images with Shutterstock AI. Beyond that, you can edit stock images directly from Shutterstock’s library. This is one of the main highlights of Shutterstock AI, in my opinion.
You can use tools like Magic Brush for targeted modifications, Background Remover to refine images, and Smart Resize to adjust dimensions. In addition, you can expand images to capture broader backgrounds and generate multiple variations of any chosen image for increased flexibility.
Pricing
Shutterstock AI’s pricing starts at $7.00 per month, allowing up to 400 images to be generated. Each AI-generated image is ready for commercial use under Shutterstock’s license terms, offering peace of mind for businesses and content creators.
User reviews
User reviews are generally sparse on Shutterstock AI, possibly because it's relatively new. However, in the few reviews I found, users cited the lack of a free plan as a drawback by wanting to test the platform before committing.
Verdict
I recommend Shutterstock AI, particularly if you are already in Shutterstock’s ecosystem. It will particularly serve professionals seeking a reliable, cost-effective way to make high-quality, commercially licensable visuals.
Note: Shutterstock AI’s platform stands out for its ethical practices, compensating artists whose work is used to train the AI model, thanks to strategic partnerships with OpenAI, Meta, and LG AI Research. Furthermore, Shutterstock says it built safeguards into its technology to remove bias in datasets, meaning that the tool supports diversity and inclusion
5. Getimg AI – best AI image generator for bulk image generation
| Starting price: | $12.00/month (web-based only) |
| Best for: | Advanced AI editing across digital projects |
| Free version: | Yes, 100 free images/month (watermarked) |
| Top features: | Advanced editing, custom AI model training, multiple reference images |
Getimg AI is an AI image generator that offers quality text-to-image generation, powered by over 70 Stable Diffusion-based (SD) models. In addition to this, Getimg AI offers users image-to-video conversion and advanced image editing features. This empowers creatives, designers, and content creators to transform their ideas into high-quality visuals with relative ease.
Features
This AI image generator offers flexibility with two modes: Essential for easy image generation and SD for fine-tuned control over AI settings.
With Getimg AI, you can use multiple image references simultaneously, enabling you to retain a specific style or character consistency across different projects. It also has advanced image editing tools like Magic Brush, Background Remover, and AI Canvas. This gives you a lot more creative control over the quality of your design projects.
Pricing
Getimg AI’s pricing structure starts at $12.00 per month, with tiered plans that offer increased credits and premium features. The free plan allows 100 AI-generated images per month, and paid plans unlock commercial rights and high-resolution downloads, potentially making it a valuable tool for professional use.
User reviews
Based on reviews, users seem to like Getimg’s ease of use and the flexibility to mix different models for diverse visual styles. Many also appreciate the inpainting and outpainting capabilities, noting that Getimg AI has replaced other tools for these tasks thanks to its features that enhance control and streamline complex edits.
However, some users noted that certain features, like masking options, could be more precise, and there’s a learning curve for those new to the platform’s detailed settings. Additionally, high-quality image outputs often require a paid plan for faster processing and commercial rights.
Verdict
Overall, I highly recommend Getimg AI to both beginners and advanced users. It pushes the boundaries of creative design and is a very adaptable tool.
6. DALL·E 3 – best AI image generator for realistic and imaginative images
| Starting price: | $20.00/month (web-based and app-based, via ChatGPT Plus) |
| Best for: | Those already familiar with ChatGPT |
| Free version: | Yes, available via Bing Image Creator (with watermarks) |
| Top features: | Precise prompt-following, realistic object positioning, full stylistic control |
DALL-E 3 was created in 2023 by tech giant OpenAI, and it is still one of the best AI tools for generating images. This tool comes with significantly advanced text-to-image generation capabilities, which allow it to offer high prompt adherence when creating images.
DALL-E 3 is available as a standalone web-based app. However, you can also use it from the ChatGPT app if you have a Plus subscription. It’s also free to use on Microsoft platforms like Bing Image Creator.
Features
In my opinion, DALL·E 3 excels in handling complex prompts with realism and detail, outperforming previous versions. This latest release addresses previous limitations, allowing precise control over visual details without requiring “prompt engineering.”
You can render scenes with precise spatial arrangements and stylistic diversity via text prompts. Advanced customization lets you refine images with specific tweaks through ChatGPT’s prompt dialogue, making it highly accessible.
OpenAI has prioritized ethics, including safety protocols, to prevent the system from generating harmful or biased content. For instance, it avoids creating images in the style of living artists and will not allow inappropriate content. These ethical safeguards and OpenAI’s continuous improvements make DALL·E 3 a responsible choice for content creators.
Pricing
There are two ways to access DALL·E 3. The first option is via ChatGPT Plus ($20.00/month), which allows you to generate up to 50 images daily with commercial use rights. You can also access the AI image generator via Microsoft’s free Bing version, but you can only generate watermarked images.
User reviews
Users praise DALL·E 3’s ability to generate complex and specific visuals in any style, such as realistic object positioning and embedded text. However, some users said they’ve noticed occasional text distortion in images.
Verdict
Overall, I recommend DALL·E 3 for anyone who wants advanced image generation. With its integration into ChatGPT, it’s accessible to all, including professionals who value both precision and ethical guidelines in their AI tools.
7. Leonardo AI – best AI generator for fast image creation
| Starting price: | $12.00/month |
| Best for: | High-quality, real-time design |
| Free version: | Yes, with limited daily tokens, in-app purchases |
| Top features: | High-quality Phoenix model, negative prompts, advanced canvas tools |
Developed by a team of AI and creative tech experts, Leonardo AI is an advanced art generator platform that debuted in 2022. This tool is particularly useful for artists, marketers, and designers.
Features
Leonardo’s user-friendly interface allows for image and video creation with a focus on real-time adaptability and customization. It supports standard image generation and offers unique features like inpainting as well as extra avenues like motion videos and 3D texture applications.
Though it is web-based, the app (iOS and Android) also provides a range of models, from general options to specialized community models. Its standout features include the Realtime Canvas, which allows you to sketch and let the AI fill in the details, and advanced editing modes for image modification.
With its negative prompt feature, you can remove unwanted elements, giving you more control over the final image. Leonardo AI also supports Motion video generation and 3D texture application on OBJ files.
Pricing
Leonardo AI offers a free tier with 150 tokens daily, while the cost of its paid plans ranges from $12.00 to $60.00 monthly, increasing token limits and model training capabilities for power users. I also found that API access is available starting at $9.00 per month (3,500 API credits).
User reviews
From what I’ve read, users are generally satisfied with Leonardo AI’s design and editing prowess, though some complained about prompt misinterpretations and minor glitches in image and motion editing. While Leonardo AI seems to be continually improving, it’s still too early to compete with established giants like OpenAI’s offerings.
Verdict
In my opinion, Leonardo AI’s strength lies in its adaptable interface, specialized tools like the Realtime Canvas, and diverse model selection. The platform is accessible to beginners yet offers depth for more advanced users. Users can work with Leonardo’s foundation Phoenix model for prompt fidelity or use diverse community models (such as Lightning XL) to achieve unique effects like anime imagery.
Our methodology for testing AI image generators
Working with the Cybernews research team, I went beyond simple product specs to explore how well each AI image generator serves users. While I didn’t test these products myself, I pulled data from user feedback and official product pages. Here’s how I selected these tools as the best AI image generators:
Output quality: Visuals are the heart of image generation. So, I checked the resolution, realism, and abstract quality of generated images.
Ease of use: A user-friendly interface is essential. I looked at how easily people navigate each tool, from setting prompts to tweaking images, and paid particular attention to users’ experiences.
Pricing: I considered how these platforms are priced and whether users feel the cost matches the value they get in creative options, image quality, and additional features.
Speed: I believe creativity shouldn’t be held up by waiting for an image to process, so I checked how fast these tools generated images.
What is an AI image generator and how does it work?
AI image generation tools are opening up an entirely new creative avenue by letting users make realistic and artistic images from text. With prompts like “sunlit forest in watercolor” or “neon cityscape at night in the rain,” you can create visuals that reflect your imagination.
AI image generators work through a branch of artificial intelligence called generative AI, which focuses on creating new content. These tools use neural networks trained on enormous image libraries to recreate different art styles. They learn to pick up on patterns, colors, and design elements. Instead of simply repeating what they’ve seen, these models create new, original visuals.
Each AI image tool has its strengths. Neural style transfer lets you mix one image’s look with another, like merging a famous painting with a photo. GANs (Generative Adversarial Networks) use two networks working together to produce photo-realistic images. Diffusion models start with random noise and gradually bring an image into focus, similar to how a photo might develop.
I’ve reviewed some of the best AI image generators out there to find the best options for creating different types of images. Whether you want to create life-like images or unique artistic styles, the various AI image generators in this guide can bring your ideas to life.
The legal and ethical implications of AI-generated images
AI-generated images are already common in mainstream media, even in Hollywood productions. However, it’s important to remember that using AI images can come with legal and ethical risks, especially for commercial purposes.
One major legal concern is copyright. Copyright laws help to prevent the unauthorized use of a person’s creative output. Since AI-generated images often lack clear human authorship, they usually don’t qualify for copyright protection. This means someone else could create something inspired by your work without consequences. Also, if your AI image looks very similar to a copyrighted image, you might face a copyright infringement claim.
Another issue is how AI image generators are trained. If the AI was trained on copyrighted images without permission, using its outputs for things like advertising could lead to lawsuits. Plus, if the AI was trained on low-quality or unbalanced data, the images it produces might show bias.
“Bias” here means the AI might portray certain groups in negative, limited, or stereotypical ways. Reviewing your images carefully and adjusting your prompts can help reduce bias. Although the chance of legal trouble right now is fairly low, this risk makes it unwise to rely entirely on AI images for your marketing or branding.
What's the future for AI image generators?
I think we’ll see impressive advancements in output (image) quality. As these models improve, the level of realism they can produce should be jaw-dropping.
These generators will get better at reading even the most specific prompts (as generative algorithms become more complex), so artists and designers may have much more control over what they create.
There's also the exciting prospect of real-time content tweaking. For example, you can probably adjust images in real time, like changing the colors, repositioning objects, or adding new elements. This means much quicker iterations and a much smoother workflow for creators in fast-paced industries like marketing.
Also, text-to-video generation is right around the corner and will undoubtedly be a game-changer for the media industry. Companies like OpenAI (Sora) and Stability AI (Stable Video), among others, are already well on their way to creating generators that turn text into incredibly realistic video content.
Then, there’s 3D modeling. Soon, you’ll be able to create 3D scenes and models with just a few lines of text.
But as with anything groundbreaking, we need to address ethical concerns. Deepfakes are an obvious worry, and as AI tools become more sophisticated, there will be plenty of debates around copyright. With all this creative freedom, we’ll need strong regulations to ensure that AI is used responsibly and that creators’ intellectual property is protected.
Factors to consider when choosing the best AI image generator
Here are a few critical factors I think you should consider when choosing an AI image generator:
- Output quality: The quality of the images you get should be your top priority when picking an AI image generator. If you want crisp, life-like images, or a more stylized, creative look, make sure the generator delivers that.
- Customization: A basic generator won’t always cut it. Look for tools that let you fine-tune the output, such as adjusting colors, changing styles, or adding textures. Some platforms allow you to upload your images or images from the web as references, which is great if you want the AI to follow your vision more closely.
- Ease of use: The last thing you want is to spend hours trying to figure out how to use an AI image generator. That’s why you need to pick a generator with an easy-to-navigate and neat interface. Simplicity and a smooth workflow can make a difference, especially if you want to create several images in one session.
- Pricing: Cost is always a factor. However, free versions of AI image generators will almost always be less capable than paid versions. You may only be able to access certain features or get faster processing times as a premium subscriber. This doesn’t mean free plans can’t be useful. I recommend you always check for a free trial to test the waters before investing.
The most renowned AI image generator isn’t necessarily the best solution for your specific needs, as newcomers are constantly raising the bar in AI image generation.
Other AI tools you might be interested in:
A final verdict on the best AI image generator
AI image generators are reshaping how we create by offering almost limitless creative freedom. They can all help to fine-tune your image creation experience, but they do so to varying degrees. This is because they have different specialties.
For instance, Pippit AI shines when you use it to create marketing and social media content. Picsart is your best bet if you’re very particular about precise AI image generation. I recommend Deep Art Effects for anyone who wants to turn photos into artistic images. But if you want to quickly create licensable stock images within Shutterstock’s creative platform, Shutterstock AI is the better choice.
Getimg AI is very good for bulk image generation, while DALL·E 3 is the ideal solution for photorealism. Leonardo AI is a quick and versatile option for high-quality design with its diffusion tech.
Ultimately, choosing the best AI image generator depends on what your specific needs are. I recommend experimenting with a few options to find your perfect match for whatever task you’re currently carrying out.
FAQ
Which AI image generator is the best for realistic images?
DALL·E 3, Getimg AI, and Leonard AI are great at producing realistic images. Besides these options, there are several other tools worth considering, like Pippit AI.
Are AI image generators free?
Some AI image generators often have a free tier. However, the paid versions are almost always superior in terms of features and capabilities. Free AI image generators usually have a limit (for instance, a daily quota of images allowed) or fall short in capabilities.
Can AI image generators create art from any prompt?
Yes, AI image generators can create art from any prompt. However, being more specific in your prompt helps the AI tool accurately represent your vision.
How long does it take to generate an image?
Generally, less than 30 seconds. Some AI image generators can produce images in a few seconds. The amount of time required depends on the server load at the AI image generator company, prompt complexity, and other factors, such as your internet connection.
Are AI image generators safe to use?
Yes, AI image generators are safe to use, provided they are run by a trustworthy company. However, for privacy and security reasons, it is generally best not to upload personal images to an AI image generator.
