AI image generators all advertise different pricing structures โ credits, generations, resolution tiers โ which makes it genuinely hard to compare cost across tools. We broke down what you're actually paying for across the major image generators.
The Three Pricing Models
1. Credit-Based Pricing
Tools like Leonardo AI use a credit system โ each generation costs a certain number of credits, and higher-resolution or more complex generations cost more. Free tiers usually give you a small daily credit allowance.
2. Subscription Tiers with Generation Limits
Midjourney uses monthly subscription tiers, each unlocking a certain amount of "fast" generation time per month, after which you either wait longer for results or upgrade.
3. Bundled into a Broader Platform
Canva AI bundles image generation into its existing Pro subscription, so you're paying for the whole design platform rather than image generation specifically.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Higher resolution or upscaling often costs extra credits, even within a "flat rate" plan
- Commercial usage rights sometimes require a higher tier than the base plan
- Generation speed (queue priority) is often gated behind higher tiers
Our Recommendation
If you're just experimenting, start with a free tier (Leonardo AI's daily credits are a good starting point) before committing to a paid plan. If image quality is non-negotiable for your work, Midjourney's subscription is usually worth the cost โ just budget for the higher tiers if you generate frequently.