Upscayl vs Topaz Gigapixel: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Upscayl and Topaz Gigapixel comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Topaz Gigapixel is our overall pick for image editing workflows. Pick Upscayl if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Upscayl
Supercharge your images with AI: Upscayl enhances low-resolution photos into clear works of art.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • AI-powered image upscaler to enhance low-resolution photos.
- • Offers both a free, open-source desktop app and a paid cloud service with advanced features.
Topaz Gigapixel
Super-size and upscale image and photo resolution up to 16x using AI.
Best for you if:
- • AI-powered image upscaling up to 16x resolution.
- • Preserves and enhances image detail, not just adds pixels.
| At a Glance |  Upscayl |  Topaz Gigapixel |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $29/moPersonal |
Best For | Image Editing | Image Editing |
Rating | - | 4.3/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Upscayl or Topaz Gigapixel?
Choose Upscayl if
Supercharge your images with AI: Upscayl enhances low-resolution photos into clear works of art.
- Open source upscaler
- Good quality
- Free to use
Choose Topaz Gigapixel if
Super-size and upscale image and photo resolution up to 16x using AI.
- AI image upscaling
- High-quality enlargement results
- Preserves image detail
- Budget matters ($29/mo vs Free)
| Feature | Upscayl | Topaz Gigapixel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.3/5 55,021 reviews |
| Categories | Image EditingAI Image Generation | Image EditingAI Image Generation |
In-Depth Analysis
Upscayl
Supercharge your images with AI: Upscayl enhances low-resolution photos into clear works of art.
Upscayl's pricing is quite generous for individual users with its robust free desktop version.
Watch out
Cloud credits are one-time purchase
Strengths
- +Open source upscaler
- +Good quality
- +Free to use
- +Local processing
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Hardware requirements
- -Learning curve
- -Quality varies
- -Processing time
- -UI basic
Key features
Topaz Gigapixel
Super-size and upscale image and photo resolution up to 16x using AI.
Topaz Gigapixel's pricing is expensive for individual users, with the Personal plan costing $29/month or $149/year, which is high for a single-purpose AI tool.
Watch out
Annual commitment for best Personal price
Strengths
- +AI image upscaling
- +High-quality enlargement results
- +Preserves image detail
- +Batch processing support
- +Professional photography use
Weaknesses
- -One-time purchase cost
- -Processing can be slow
- -High system requirements
- -Results vary by source image
- -Large file outputs
Key features
Pricing: Upscayl vs Topaz Gigapixel
| Plan | Upscayl | Topaz Gigapixel |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Desktop (Free) | $29 Personal |
| Tier 2 | $219.99 Cloud Beta | Custom Pro |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Upscayl pricing and Topaz Gigapixel pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Upscayl has a free tier. Topaz Gigapixel is paid only.
Go with: Upscayl
Want the highest-rated option?
Topaz Gigapixel is rated 4.3/5. Upscayl has no ratings yet.
Go with: Topaz Gigapixel
Value user reviews?
Upscayl: no ratings yet. Topaz Gigapixel: 55,021 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Topaz Gigapixel
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Upscayl is freemium. Topaz Gigapixel is paid. Upscayl lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are image editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Topaz Gigapixel is rated 4.3/5; Upscayl has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Topaz Gigapixel
- Our pick for this comparison
Upscayl
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Topaz Gigapixel is our pick. Upscayl has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Upscayl or Topaz Gigapixel better?
Topaz Gigapixel is rated in our evaluation. Upscayl is freemium and Topaz Gigapixel is paid.
What are Upscayl and Topaz Gigapixel used for?
Upscayl: Supercharge your images with AI: Upscayl enhances low-resolution photos into clear works of art.. Topaz Gigapixel: Super-size and upscale image and photo resolution up to 16x using AI..
What does Upscayl cost vs Topaz Gigapixel?
Upscayl is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Topaz Gigapixel is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.