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In the wake of the recent surge in artificial intelligence technology, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress in image processing within our digital experiences. While AI photo editors allow for editing existing images, dedicated AI image upscalers are specifically designed to enhance the resolution of photos to 4K or 8K. These upscalers can restore lost details, sharpen blurred images, and correct pixelation, offering a range of functionalities beyond basic editing. Let’s dive into some of the standout tools available today.
1. Upscayl
Upscayl is a free, open-source application that efficiently enhances your images. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, and the developer is working on a cloud version, which is currently in beta testing. You can run the application locally on your computer to upscale low-res images to high-res formats. It features five modes tailored for different needs and utilizes your GPU to enhance clarity in images.
One of the standout features is the ability to batch process images, a capability not common in most free tools. Upscayl supports several formats, including PNG, JPG, and WEBP, and utilizes models like Real-ESRGAN, REMACRI, and more. Based on my experience, the user interface is straightforward, and the application quickly enhances image details using AI technology.
Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, and Linux
Cost: Free
Upscale.media is an exceptional online AI image upscaling tool. Simply navigate to the website, upload your image, and download the enhanced result. There’s no need for sign-ups or credit card information—it’s just that simple.
This platform allows you to upscale images by up to 4x for free, which is more generous than many other free services that usually cap at 2x. Additionally, you can find mobile applications for both Android and iOS.
Upscale.media supports popular formats such as PNG, JPEG, JPG, and WEBP. Keep in mind that images are processed in the cloud, so consider privacy if that’s a concern. Overall, it’s a user-friendly solution for converting low-quality images into sharp, detailed photos.
Supported platforms: Web, Android, and iOS
Cost: Free; paid plans begin at $29 for 300 credits
3. SuperImage
SuperImage is a versatile app that allows you to upscale images locally on your device without requiring an internet connection. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize privacy and wish to avoid uploading personal photos to online services.
This app can enhance low-resolution images by up to 16x at no cost. While it is free, users who want access to custom upscaling models can opt for the paid SuperImage Pro app. The application employs a neural network and a deep learning framework, utilizing the Real-ESRGAN algorithm to improve image quality. It takes advantage of your device’s GPU to restore image details effectively.
Currently available on Android and Windows, the developer has confirmed that versions for macOS and Linux are coming soon. If you own a high-performance Android phone or a powerful PC, I recommend giving this tool a try.
Supported platforms: Android, Windows
Cost: Free (with ads)
4. Topaz Gigapixel
Topaz Labs presents Gigapixel AI, a robust AI image upscaler that comes with a price tag. It’s a preferred choice for photographers and video creators as it can also enhance video content. Renowned companies like Netflix, Warner Bros, Disney, and Apple utilize this tool.
Gigapixel AI employs deep learning techniques to restore video footage and enhance details in a unique manner, setting it apart from other services.
The models are consistently trained on a diverse range of images to understand different scenes and accurately reconstruct pixels, producing natural-looking results. Whether you’re working with portraits, wildlife, landscapes, or architecture, Gigapixel AI is an excellent choice for enhancing your images.
However, keep in mind that this software is not free; the cost is $99.99. A free trial is available for those looking to test it out.
Supported platforms: Windows and macOS
Cost: Free trial; $99.99 thereafter
5. Pixelcut
Pixelcut is a well-known AI image editing app available on Android and iOS. While many features are paid, users can upscale images for free via the web version without needing to create an account. You can easily upload your image and enhance it up to 2x resolution.
To achieve 4x upscaling, you’ll need to purchase the Pro plan. Based on my testing, Pixelcut performed reasonably well by increasing resolution but fell short in enhancing fine details. Additionally, there’s a Midjourney Upscaler for improving AI-generated images, as well as a specialized tool for upscaling logos.
Supported platforms: Web, Android, and iOS
Cost: Free; Pro plan starts at $4.99/month
6. OpenModelDB
OpenModelDB caters to technical users looking for top-notch AI upscaling models. It’s a community-driven repository featuring hundreds of specialized AI models for enhancing images. Whether you want to upscale cartoon images, anime graphics, video frames, game textures, manga, or pixel art, you can find the right model for your needs here.
To use these tailored AI upscaling models, you’ll need software like ChaiNNer, Upscayl, ComfyUI, or Topaz Gigapixel. A computer with suitable hardware is required to execute these models locally, but if you’re comfortable with that, OpenModelDB is a valuable resource for finding specific image upscaling methods.
Supported platforms: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux
Cost: Free
7. Image Scaler by Jasper
Jasper’s AI image upscaler is an exceptional tool, and I’ve had positive experiences using it. It’s user-friendly and does an excellent job of enhancing images without over-sharpening. Jasper integrates various AI editing tools on its platform called Clipdrop.
The best aspect of this upscaler is that 2x upscaling is free. To upscale images by 4x to 16x, you’ll need to opt for a paid plan.
Subscribing to the paid plan grants access to a faster model for image generation, improved relighting capabilities, text removal from images, and more. If you’re looking to enhance images while adding finer details, the Clipdrop platform can assist you with that as well. Overall, the free version is quite adequate for most users, and I recommend giving it a try.
Supported platforms: Web
Cost: Free; paid plans start at $10 for 1,000 credits
8. Remini
Remini is a fantastic AI-powered app for enhancing images, available on Android and iOS. It can revive old photos, retrieve lost details, rectify pixelation, and much more. However, it’s not entirely free; you’ll need to watch a 30-second advertisement to upscale a photo and another ad to save the enhanced version. Additionally, images are uploaded to the cloud for processing.
Remini excels particularly in enhancing photos of human faces and selfies. Other features include creating vintage yearbook photos, professional resume shots, AI-generated images, and facial beautification tools.
If you’re an iPhone or Android user looking for an effective AI image enhancer, Remini is a great choice. You might also consider Pixelup (iOS) and AI Enlarger (iOS) as alternatives on iOS.
Supported platforms: Web, Android, and iOS
Cost: Free; premium plans start at $6.99/week
9. Let’s Enhance
Let’s Enhance is another free AI image upscaler I appreciate for its user-friendly interface and seamless functionality. Signing up allows you to start enhancing your photos easily. The tool even supports batch upscaling, a handy feature for those utilizing free services.
Additionally, it includes AI-powered features such as image lighting adjustments, tone enhancements, color enhancements, and background removal. In my tests, the upscaled images met or exceeded expectations compared to other services.
However, under the free version, it only allows for 2x upscaling, limiting what you can do. Free users also receive a mere 10 credits, which can feel restrictive; a subscription you’ll need is available for $9 a month for an additional 100 credits, unlocking larger enhancements and numerous new features.
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable online AI photo enhancement tool, Let’s Enhance is definitely worth exploring.
Supported platforms: Web
Cost: Free for 10 credits; paid plans begin at $9 for 100 credits
10. Img Upscaler
Img Upscaler rounds out our list, offering free image enhancements of up to 4x resolution. You can upload PNG and JPG files and receive quick enhancements. While batch upscaling and larger resolutions are part of the paid service, you can still enjoy the free option.
According to the service, all uploaded images are securely removed from their servers within 24 hours. For improving images of cartoons, anime, or facial images, Img Upscaler provides a reliable service worth trying out.
Supported platforms: Web, Android, and iOS
Cost: Free; paid plans start at $19 per year
These are some of the best-known AI image upscalers you can explore on your computer or mobile device. Most of these services are free and allow for enhancements up to 4x or even 16x without any cost. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also create QR codes using AI just for fun. If your favorite tool or app isn’t featured here, feel free to share it in the comments section below!
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