Top AI image generators and editing tools in 2024

AI image generators, also known as image generation tools, are design tools that generate stunning and realistic images like magic (well, actually, they use some pretty advanced algorithms, but magic sounds cooler, right?). These tools have turned the art of image creation on its head, making it accessible for literally everyone.

But hold on! Before you start planning to fire your designer, remember this: AI image generators aren't here to replace creative minds; they're here as AI assistants to kickstart your creativity. They’re the equivalent of that friend who suggests the perfect road trip destination when you can’t decide. These tools are super useful for artists, designers, marketers, and anyone who needs images for content creation.

The basics of AI image generators

So, how do these AI image generators actually work? Let’s break it down:

1. Input: You give the tool a text prompt or a description of the image you want.
2. Algorithm Processing: The AI algorithm analyzes your input and creates an image based on what you described.
3. Output: Voilà! The generated image is displayed, ready for you to tweak and perfect.

It's like having a fast artist who makes great images quickly, helping you get more done. Whether you're making social media graphics, designing banners, or illustrating blog posts, AI image generators offer endless possibilities.

Are AI image generators perfect?

Even magic has its limits. AI image generators might not always hit the bullseye of your creative vision. Sometimes, the generated images might be a tad off from what you imagined. But hey, they’re a fantastic starting point and can be fine-tuned with traditional editing tools.

Now, let's dive into some of the best AI image generators out there!

1. Magnific AI

Magnific is a top AI image editing tool that’s great at making your pictures higher resolution and better quality.

Key highlights

• The Upscaler uses artificial intelligence to improve image resolution. It also adds fine details for clear and realistic results, making it the best upscaler out there.
• Relight allows you to transform the lighting of any scene using a prompt, reference image, or lightmap.
• The Style Transfer + Upscale feature is like having the best AI interior designer on the market.
• Integrations with your favorite design tools like Photoshop.

2. Midjourney

Next up is Midjourney, one of the most popular AI image generators out there. Known for its incredible ability to produce stunning and imaginative visuals from text prompts, Midjourney is a favorite among artists, designers, and creatives.

Key highlights

• Use these Style Reference codes to keep your art consistent and precise.
• Control your Style Reference intensity by dialing up or down the style influence to get just the right look you’re aiming for.
• Use Character Reference to add specific characters to your prompts to nail the exact one you want.
• Use the "U" button to upscale an image and the "V" button to create variations of the original image.
• Change specific parts of your image with Vary Region.

3. Leonardo AI

Leonardo AI is a fantastic tool for creating and refining images with a high level of detail and control. It's perfect for anyone who loves getting into the nitty-gritty of image creation and wants to see their vision come to life with precision. Here’s why it’s capturing attention:

Key highlights

• Live Canvas shows AI interpretations as you draw, helping you improve your image in real time.
• Content Reference allows you to turn any object, like a sofa, dress, or house, into a central part of your design. This helps you blend the object's shape, location, and depth into your overall image for countless creative options.
• Multi-Style Reference allows you to combine different styles in a new way. You can upload four style reference images and adjust their impact to customize your creations. This helps you blend textures and artistic styles for unlimited possibilities.

4. Topaz Photo AI

Topaz Photo AI is a cool tool that uses AI to make your photos look amazing. It’s got everything you need to fix noise, blur, and even upscale your images. Here’s why we love it:

Key highlights

• Best-in-class noise and blur reduction.
• Versatile image enhancement capabilities, including color correction, background changes, and object removal.
• Autopilot feature for detecting subjects and faces automatically.
• Works well with RAW files for greater detail and clarity.

5. Microsoft Designer Image Creator

Are you looking for a free AI image generator? Meet the Image Creator from Microsoft Designer! Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

Key Features:

• It uses DALL-E 3’s advanced technology, known for its jaw-dropping image generation.
• Offers tons of customization options—adjust colors, styles, and compositions to your heart’s content.
• Provides various image categories and themes to spark your creativity.

6. Grok-2 by xAI

Although somewhat controversial, Grok-2 is the latest AI model from xAI. While only available to users on X's premium paid plan (sorry free plan, peeps), Grok is showing that it can push the boundaries of what AI image generators can do.

Key features:

• Creators can make a wide range of images with this AI image generator. However, some of Grok's generations might be  offensive to some.
• Can create convincing and realistic images from the wildest text descriptions.
• No need to worry about a steep learning curve, so enjoy saving time while pushing the boundaries of image creation.

7. Flux.1 from BasedLabs

Developed by Blackforest Labs, Flux.1 is an open-source image generation model with key features including images with intricate but complex compositions.

Key features:

• Top-notch ability at reproducing text within images.
• An ideal image generator for branded content.
• One of the best image generators for multi-element prompts.

The future of AI image generators: What’s next?

Other text-to-image generators you can consider are Adobe Firefly and Stable Diffusion. But as you may have heard, AI art generators are improving daily. Here’s a glimpse into what’s coming:

1. Better Image Quality: Get ready for even more realistic and high-quality images.
2. More Customization: You’ll have more control over every part of the images you create.
3. Smooth Integration: AI tools will work seamlessly with other design software like Figma or Photoshop.
4. Real-Time Collaboration: New features will let multiple users work on images together.
5. Easier to Use: Interfaces will become more user-friendly, making these tools accessible to everyone.

To stay ahead of the game, keep up with industry news, join online communities, attend AI and design webinars, and try out new tools. The future is bright and full of creative possibilities!

And hey, don’t forget to swing by Lummi, a free AI stock library where you can find stunning images generated using these tools. Whether you’re downloading for personal use or contributing your own creations, Lummi is a fantastic resource.