Task
Best AI tools to generate images
We compared 5 AI tools to generate images. 4 have a free plan. Leonardo.Ai ranks first on our task-fit signals: text-to-image generation works from prompts or custom models, with 80+ models available on paid plans. Listings were last checked on Nov 6, 2026.
Image generators differ less in whether they can make a picture than in control and rights: how well they follow detailed prompts, whether they render readable text, whether you can edit parts of an image, and what the plan says about commercial use. Credit-based plans make the monthly image count the number to compare.
Preview build: this list has 5 of the 8+ tools a task page needs before it can be published (methodology, coverage rule).
The ranking
- 1
Leonardo.Ai
FreemiumFrom $12/moWhy it fits: Text-to-image generation works from prompts or custom models, with 80+ models available on paid plans.
Fit score 9/9: The task is the tool's first-listed use case; The tool's primary category matches the task's category; Five or more verified features; A free plan is available (stated on its pricing page); Plans and prices are verified from its own pricing page
- 2
Midjourney
PaidFrom $10/moWhy it fits: Image generation runs in Fast or Relax GPU modes, with unlimited Relax images on Standard, Pro and Mega.
Fit score 8/9: The task is the tool's first-listed use case; The tool's primary category matches the task's category; Five or more verified features; Plans and prices are verified from its own pricing page
- 3
ChatGPT
FreemiumFrom $8/moWhy it fits: Image generation sits inside the same chat, so you can describe a picture and refine it conversationally; free users get limited image creation.
Fit score 7/9: The task is the tool's first-listed use case; Five or more verified features; A free plan is available (stated on its pricing page); Plans and prices are verified from its own pricing page
- 4
CapCut
FreemiumFrom $12.49/moWhy it fits: An AI image generator creates images from prompts, with models such as GPT Image 2 available.
Fit score 3/9: Five or more verified features; A free plan is available (stated on its pricing page); Plans and prices are verified from its own pricing page
- 5
Runway
FreemiumFrom $15/moWhy it fits: Image generation uses Gen-4 Image and Nano Banana Pro inside the same workspace as video.
Fit score 3/9: Five or more verified features; A free plan is available (stated on its pricing page); Plans and prices are verified from its own pricing page
Side-by-side
| Tool | Price | Free plan | Platforms | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leonardo.Ai | From $12/mo | Yes | API | Nov 6, 2026 |
| Midjourney | From $10/mo | Not stated | Web, Discord | Nov 6, 2026 |
| ChatGPT | From $8/mo | Yes | Web, iOS, Android, Desktop app | Nov 6, 2026 |
| CapCut | From $12.49/mo | Yes | Web, Desktop app | Nov 6, 2026 |
| Runway | From $15/mo | Yes | iOS, Android, API | Nov 6, 2026 |
Choosing a tool to generate images: what the data says
- Free to try: Leonardo.Ai, ChatGPT, CapCut and Runway have a free plan.
- Lowest listed entry price: ChatGPT at $8/mo; the highest entry price here is Runway at $15/mo.
- On your phone: ChatGPT and Runway list an iOS or Android app.
- For developers: Leonardo.Ai and Runway offer an API.
Order is by fit score, from published signals; ties go alphabetically and no tool can pay for a position. How the score works.