Top 10 Topaz Gigapixel AI Alternatives in 2025

Top 10 Topaz Gigapixel AI Alternatives Review 2025

#1. Winxvideo AI

Winxvideo AI tops the list of Topaz Gigapixel AI alternatives with its advanced AI algorithms that upscale and enhance images with remarkable precision and efficiency. Its capacity to enhance photos to resolutions of 4K, 8K, and even 10K with exceptional detail and clarity. The software's automatic removal of scratches and stains streamlines old or low-quality photo restoration process. Moreover, the inclusion of batch processing capabilities, combined with GPU acceleration, facilitates the enhancement of extensive photo collections swiftly and effectively.

Winxvideo AI is a versatile AI-powered toolbox to enhance both videos and images with a multitude of features beyond simple upscaling and stabilization. Its functionalities extend to improving old, low-quality, noisy, and blurry visuals. With the ability to increase the frame rate of videos, Winxvideo AI empowers users to refine motion and fluidity in their visual creations. Moreover, its capacity to edit and stabilize 4K, 8K, and HDR videos with full GPU acceleration ensures that content creators can achieve cinema-grade visuals with every frames.

Similar to other Gigapixel AI alternatives on the list, its absence on Mac platforms imposes limitations on accessibility. As a result, users are required to transfer restored photos to iPhone or Android mobile devices for further convenience and sharing.

Free Download Free Download Free Download

Note: AI tools for Mac are currently unavailable, but they're coming soon. Stay tuned.

#2. Real-ESRGAN

When it comes to images in the realm of anime characters, illustrations, and digital artwork like digital illustrations featuring clean lines and distinct edges, Real-ESRGAN emerges as a superior choice over Topaz Gigapixel AI. The Gigapixel AI alternative consistently delivers superior image results, boasting uniform and smooth colors without unnecessary artifacts, along with crisp lines and the ability to transform low-quality images into ultra-high definition.

In comparison, Real-ESRGAN, as alternative to Gigapixel AI, surpasses in overall clarity post-enlargement, presenting a cleaner visual appearance. While Gigapixel AI may appear to retain more details, its algorithm tends to be overly aggressive, resulting in excessive sharpening, the presence of artifacts, stripes, or grids, and uneven color distribution.

Real-ESRGAN produces softer and more refined images, significantly and improves overall image quality. Even upon enlargement, Real-ESRGAN's output remains flawless, ensuring consistently high-quality results. Hence, Real-ESRGAN emerges as a formidable alternative to Gigapixel AI, particularly for enthusiasts of anime and digital artwork.

Read more: [Review] Top AI Photo Restoration Software for Windows and macOS.

Real-ESRGAN vs Gigapixel AI

Real-ESRGAN is open-source and powerful, the Gigapixel AI alternative excels in specific tasks. You can train custom models for unique needs, like upscaling old cartoons (e.g., Super Mario Bros. Super Show). However, it might require technical knowledge for setup and operation. Gigapixel AI is more user-friendly and commercially available, it offers a streamlined workflow and consistent results. While potentially less customizable, it might be easier to use for quick upscaling of real-life photos.

#3. Photoshop Super Resolution

Photoshop is a viable alternative to Gigapixel AI. Gigapixel AI offers significant enhancements, including clarification of details such as beaks and eyes, it tends to introduce unsightly artifacts, particularly noticeable in 100 percent crops. However, at regular viewing resolutions, Gigapixel AI versions appear sharper and more visually appealing.

In contrast, Photoshop's Super Resolution feature shows a softer outcome initially but holds potential for improvement with additional noise reduction and sharpening adjustments. Although Gigapixel AI provides powerful tools for fine-tuning image quality, its extended processing time poses a significant inconvenience.

Gigapixel AI offers robust capabilities, its propensity for excessive noise reduction and patchy artifacts may detract from overall image quality. Photoshop's Super Resolution feature, coupled with post-processing adjustments, offers a compelling alternative with the potential for achieving comparable results while maintaining strong viability. Therefore, in scenarios where control over noise reduction and fine detail retention is paramount, Photoshop proves to be a commendable Gigapixel AI alternative.

Read More: [Photoshop Tutorial] How To Upscale An Image In Photoshop

Photoshop vs Gigapixel AI

Topaz Gigapixel AI tends to over-sharpen images and create artifacts, and its default noise reduction can be too aggressive. Overall, the article concludes that Adobe Photoshop's "Preserve Details 2.0" is a better option for enlarging photos.

When image upscaling using Adobe Photoshop Super Resolution and Topaz Gigapixel AI, Gigapixel AI produces sharper images with less noise, but Super Resolution is easier to use and faster.

#4. Lightroom

When choosing alternatives to Topaz Gigapixel AI, Lightroom is a robust contender. Lightroom Enhance and Gigapixel AI both offer solutions for upscaling image resolution, yet the comparison between them reveals Lightroom's superiority in preserving detail and enhancing image quality.

Lightroom Enhance's integration within the Lightroom ecosystem allows for a seamless editing workflow. The Super Resolution feature produces impressive results with minimal artifacts, especially evident in preserving skin texture and sharpness in details like eyelashes. Even though Lightroom Enhance is limited to JPEG upscaling and may lack as many customization options as specialized plugins like Gigapixel AI, it remains a convenient and effective solution for enhancing images.

Lightroom's Super Resolution feature, included with its photo editing application subscription, provides photographers with a cost-effective means to achieve remarkable results without the need for additional plugins or software.

Despite Lightroom Super Resolution's limitations, such as being restricted to 200% upscales and occasional reliability issues, its effectiveness makes it a compelling choice for users already subscribed to Lightroom. Therefore, for photographers seeking a reliable and efficient solution for upscaling images, Lightroom emerges as a viable alternative to Gigapixel AI.

Read more: How to Use Denoise in Lightroom Classic[Lightroom Tutorial]

Lightroom vs Gigapixel AI

Lightroom and Gigapixel AI are complementary tools. Lightroom allows for comprehensive photo management and editing, while Gigapixel AI excels at specific tasks like noise reduction and upscaling.

Gigapixel AI removes noise from images more effectively than Lightroom. It increases image resolution with impressive detail preservation. However, Gigapixel AI lacks the breadth of editing tools found in Lightroom.

#5. waifu2x

For anime-style art or images with low detail, waifu2x can server as the best open-source free alternative to Gigapixel AI. Unlike Gigapixel AI, waifu2x offers several user-friendly features that cater specifically to the needs of its target audience.

One of waifu2x's notable advantages is its accessibility. Users can access most of its features without the need for registration, providing a hassle-free experience. Additionally, waifu2x is ad-free, ensuring a distraction-free environment for users as they enhance their images.

Another key feature of waifu2x is its batch editing capability. This feature allows users to select multiple items and edit their properties simultaneously, streamlining the editing process and saving valuable time. waifu2x can be used offline, eliminating the dependency on an internet connection. This offline functionality ensures that users can access and utilize waifu2x's features regardless of their internet availability.

In contrast, while Gigapixel AI offers advanced features and customization options, its subscription-based model and online dependency may deter some users, particularly those seeking a simple and accessible solution like waifu2x.

waifu2x vs Gigapixel AI

Waifu2x is ideal for upscaling anime, artwork, or low-resolution images, especially if you prioritize a free and lightweight solution. Gigapixel AI is suitable for a broader range of image types, including real-world photos and art.

If you primarily deal with anime and artwork, the free and customizable Waifu2x is a fantastic option. However, if you require exceptional upscaling results for real-world photos and don't mind the cost, Gigapixel AI delivers professional-grade performance with a user-friendly approach.

#6. RealScaler

RealScaler should be one of the best alternative to Topaz Gigapixel AI for Windows, offering a range of features tailored to enhance, enlarge, and reduce noise in photographs and videos using Real-ESRGAN AI technology. RealScaler's portability enables users to utilize the application from a USB stick or similar storage device, offering flexibility and convenience in usage. Its support for 4K content, also known as UHD or Ultra HD, empowers users to work with high-resolution media seamlessly.

Thanks to GPU and CPU acceleration, RealScaler maximizes rendering, conversion, and overall performance. Users can access most features of the Gigapixel AI alternative without the need for registration, simplifying the user experience and eliminating unnecessary steps.

In comparison to Gigapixel AI, the Topaz Gigapixel AI free alternative offers a comprehensive set of features without the limitations associated with online dependency or subscription models. With its emphasis on user experience, performance, and privacy, RealScaler emerges as a reliable alternative for users seeking efficient image enhancement and enlargement tools.

RealScaler vs Gigapixel AI

If you're a tech-savvy user who prioritizes speed and cost-effectiveness, RealScaler is a compelling option. However, if you value a user-friendly interface, top-notch quality, and pre-trained models for various image types, Gigapixel AI might be a better fit.

#7. ON1 Resize AI

ON1 Resize AI allows users to choose scaling factors of 6x or beyond, providing flexibility in enlarging images to desired dimensions. Users can select from two interpolation methods, Standard or Faithful, with options to refine image quality based on individual preferences.

ON1 Resize AI provides users with control over sharpening and grain generation with fine-tuning of image output to achieve desired results. As part of ON1 Photo RAW, Resize AI has integration within the editing workflow, ensuring a cohesive user experience without the need for additional standalone applications.

While ON1 Resize AI may not offer as extensive customization options as Gigapixel AI, it excels in providing crisp and natural-looking results, particularly in preserving fine details and minimizing artifacts. Although Gigapixel AI may render text and certain details slightly cleaner, ON1 Resize AI is a Gigapixel AI alternative with its balance of performance and quality.

ON1 Resize AI vs Gigapixel AI

Choose ON1 Resize AI if you prioritize speed, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, especially if you already use other ON1 products. It offers a streamlined experience with presets tailored to different image types and includes noise reduction. However, if image quality is paramount and you require the highest level of detail preservation and customization, Gigapixel AI is the superior choice, despite its higher cost.

#8. Nero Image Upscaler

Nero Image Upscaler is another alternative to Gigapixel AI, particularly for users seeking an AI-powered tool for image upscaling and enhancement. It uses AI technology to upscale images automatically, enabling users to enhance image resolution with ease. The tool also offers features like contrast adjustment, brightness control, and noise reduction.

The free Gigapixel AI alternative allows users to upscale images by up to 4x, with a significant enhancement in resolution without compromising image quality. Nero Image Upscaler emerges as a promising alternative to Gigapixel AI, offering AI-powered upscaling, enhancement features, and affordability. With its user-friendly interface and impressive upscaling capabilities, Nero Image Upscaler serves as a reliable tool for users seeking to enhance their images without extensive technical knowledge or financial investment.

Nero Image Upscaler vs Gigapixel AI

Nero Image Upscaler is a free, web-based option offering a simple way to enlarge images. Ideal for casual users, it provides basic upscaling with minimal effort. However, image quality might be compromised compared to dedicated software.

Gigapixel AI excels in image upscaling, delivering superior results with advanced AI technology. As a standalone application, it offers greater control and customization but requires a purchase. It's the preferred choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking the highest quality output.

#9. Upscayl AI Image Upscaler

For those seeking a Gigapixel AI alternative, Upscayl presents a compelling option with a range of features designed for image upscaling. Its key strengths include its cost-effectiveness and the use of AI-driven techniques to preserve image clarity during enlargement, making it a practical solution for enhancing diverse visuals. Supporting common formats like JPG and PNG, its batch upscaling capability is particularly beneficial for users handling numerous images.

While Upscayl provides flexible scaling options, allowing users to tailor the enlargement to their needs, its default 4X upscaling limit might be restrictive for individuals with more demanding upscaling requirements. Although the user interface aims for simplicity, navigating Upscayl may initially present a slight learning curve for novice users.

However, Upscayl's performance can be inconsistent, as demonstrated by its limitations in recovering detail in very low-resolution images, where Gigapixel AI sometimes achieves better results. It's worth noting that even Gigapixel AI isn't flawless, occasionally introducing unwanted artifacts such as the appearance of faces in non-facial areas.

Upscayl AI Image Upscaler vs Gigapixel AI

Gigapixel AI stands out for its superior quality, advanced features, and dedicated software approach. If you prioritize affordability, ease of use, and basic upscaling needs, Upscayl is a compelling choice. For professional and demanding users seeking the absolute best results, Gigapixel AI is the way to go.

#10. Waifu2x Caffe

Waifu2x-caffe is open-source free Topaz Gigapixel AI free alternative, particularly adept at enhancing anime, illustrations, and digital artwork. Leveraging Nvidia's CUDA and cuDNN technologies, it offers hardware-accelerated processing for faster upscaling on compatible GPUs, a significant advantage over the original Waifu2x. While currently supporting CUDA 11.0, its enhanced functionality includes broader file format support and advanced scaling models. Windows users with Nvidia GPUs benefit from a seamless installation process.

From a user perspective, Waifu2x-caffe has become an indispensable tool for anime enthusiasts, enabling the upscaling of images to remarkably high resolutions, like 32k, enhancing the viewing experience even on mobile devices. Features such as customizable scaling models and folder organization are particularly appealing to those managing extensive image libraries. However, some users have reported occasional performance issues, such as longer model loading times on newer iOS devices, a technical limitation acknowledged by the developers with hopes for future improvements.

Despite its overall strong performance, Waifu2x-caffe faces some areas for improvement, notably regarding model loading times and the unclear communication surrounding its versioning, with users expressing confusion about the "full version" and whether it implies a paid upgrade or an unlockable feature. Clearer guidance on this aspect would enhance the user experience.

Waifu2x Caffe vs Gigapixel AI

Waifu2x Caffe is ideal for users who primarily work with anime or artwork and prioritize a free, lightweight solution. Gigapixel AI is perfect for users seeking the highest quality upscaling results for a variety of image types. It's better for producing detailed and natural-looking upscaled images.

Conclusion

There is a diverse array of Gigapixel AI alternatives catering to users with varying levels of expertise and preferences. For beginners, the free, open source tools, such as Real-ESRGAN, waifu2x, Waifu2x Caffe, offer a convenient starting point, equipped with basic editing tools within intuitive interfaces.

For those seeking to delve deeper into the realm of photo editing, Adobe Photoshop and Lightrooms are good choices. With its simplified interface and extensive Edits, users can explore a spectrum of photo upscaling and editing techniques, from standard adjustments to more advanced effects, with lots of guidance and support.

For ease of use and full features, Winxvideo AI and Nero Image Upscaler are preferred by a vibrant community of photographers and editors. Winxvideo AI also includes both video and image enhancer. Most of alternatives to Gigapixel AI on the list are AI-powered.