RoundupBy Rafał Czarnecki6/26/20265 min read
The best AI image models in 2026
In short
Nano Banana, GPT Image, Ideogram, Seedream, Z-Image — there are tons of models today. We help you pick the right one for each task.
Contents
The image-generation model market is evolving fast. Instead of sticking to one, it's worth matching the model to the task. Here is an overview of the best AI image models and their strengths.
Quick comparison
| Model | Best for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Seedream 4.5 / 5.0 | Versatile photorealism — a safe all-rounder | Low → flagship |
| Nano Banana (Google) | Editing your own photos, character consistency | Medium |
| GPT Image (OpenAI) | Composition and readable text on graphics | Medium-high |
| Ideogram | Lettering, logos and posters with text | Low-medium |
| Z-Image / Qwen | High quality at a low price | Low |
Seedream —versatile photorealism
The Seedream family (4.5, 5.0) is a solid choice for most uses — from instant sketches to photorealistic, polished graphics. A good starting point when you don't know where to begin.
Nano Banana (Google) — fidelity and editing
Google's models (Nano Banana, Gemini Image) are great at preserving detail when editing photos and at character consistency. Good when you want a realistic makeover of your own photo.
GPT Image (OpenAI) — composition and text
GPT Image understands complex instructions well and handles composition and text on graphics. It shines in materials where layout and message matter.
Ideogram — lettering and logos
If you need legible text on a graphic (posters, logos, posts with a slogan), Ideogram is one of the best choices — it renders lettering far better than most models.
Z-Image and Qwen — quality at a low price
Asian models (Z-Image, Qwen) offer high quality at a reasonable cost and work well for both generation and editing.
Which model should you pick?
- Quick idea test → a cheap, instant model (e.g. Z-Image Turbo)
- Final, photorealistic graphic → a flagship model (Nano Banana Pro, Seedream 5)
- Lettering / logos → Ideogram
- Editing your own photo → Nano Banana, Seedream
Summary
There is no single best model — there is the best model for a given task. Your biggest advantage is being able to choose among many in one place. In FATTLY you'll find over 25 image models and switch between them with one click.
Frequently asked questions
Which AI image model is the best?
It depends on the task: Seedream for versatile photorealism, Ideogram for lettering and logos, Nano Banana for photo editing. It's best to test a few.
Can I switch models on the fly?
Yes. In FATTLY you pick a model on every generation and switch freely between them.
How much does a generation cost across models?
The credit cost depends on the model — from 1 credit for fast models to more for flagships. You see the current cost when choosing.
Ready to try?
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