Upscayl
Upscayl is a free and open source AI tool used for image upscaling. The tool uses advanced AI algorithms to enlarge or upscale images, maki...
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What is Upscayl?
Upscayl is a free and open-source AI-powered image upscaler designed to enlarge and enhance low-resolution images using advanced AI models like Real-ESRGAN. It transforms blurry or pixelated photos into high-quality visuals without significant loss of detail, supporting upscaling up to 16x on the desktop version. Available as a desktop app for Linux, macOS, and Windows, it processes images locally with Vulkan-compatible GPUs for optimal performance.
Key features include multiple AI models tailored for different image types such as digital art, portraits, and general photos, batch upscaling for processing multiple images at once, and options like double upscaling for superior results. Users can customize themes, output formats (PNG, JPG, WebP), resolutions, and even add custom models. Upscayl Cloud extends this with browser-based access, no hardware requirements, AI image generation, editing, face enhancement, and support for commercial use.
It's ideal for creators, designers, artists, businesses, and developers who need to restore old photos, upscale artwork, or prepare images for print and web without expensive subscriptions. The intuitive interface makes it accessible for beginners, while advanced options appeal to power users seeking high customization and limitless processing.
Upscayl pricing
Pricing model: Free
Upscayl Desktop is completely free with no tiers or limits. Upscayl Cloud Beta offers enhanced features like no hardware needs, faster processing, AI generation, editing, unlimited storage, commercial models, face enhancement, and more formats; pricing details not specified on site—contact support.
Upscayl pros
- Free and open-source forever
- Cross-platform for Linux, macOS, Windows
- Local processing ensures privacy
- No internet required for desktop
- Multiple AI models for various images
- Batch upscaling multiple files
- Double upscaling for better quality
- Customizable themes and settings
- Supports custom model addition
- High upscaling up to 16x
- Vulkan GPU acceleration
- Saves in PNG, JPG, WebP formats
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- No limits on image count or size
- Active community and updates
- Portable AppImage for Linux
Upscayl cons
- Requires Vulkan-compatible GPU
- Most iGPUs not supported
- Slow on weaker hardware
- No CPU-only fallback
- macOS needs version 12+
- Windows SmartScreen warnings
- AppImage permission setup on Linux
- No CLI in main app
- Cloud version in beta
- Models download separately
Frequently asked questions about Upscayl
How does Upscayl work?
Upscayl uses AI models like Real-ESRGAN and Vulkan architecture to enhance low-res images by predicting missing details. It enlarges images without quality loss, best for pixelated but not heavily blurred photos.
Do I need a GPU?
Yes, a Vulkan-compatible GPU is required; most iGPUs don't work, but you can try. Workarounds exist for Windows/Linux.
Why no drastic change in upscale?
Upscayl enhances low-res/pixelated images but can't de-blur or fix out-of-focus shots. Use sharp source images like demo examples.
Is there a CLI version?
Yes, use upscayl-ncnn for command-line upscaling.
Where to find more models?
Download from https://github.com/upscayl/custom-models and add them via the app.
How to install on Linux?
Use Flatpak/Snap/AppImage from releases or site; for AppImage, set executable permissions and run.
What if I stop batch upscaling?
Wait for full completion; post-processing like compression happens after all upscales finish.
What's GPU ID for?
Selects specific GPU if multiple available; detailed in wiki, note Windows performance mode may override.
Can I use for commercial purposes?
Desktop yes under AGPLv3; Cloud explicitly supports commercial usage with no restrictions.
How to contribute?
Report issues, submit PRs for fixes/features, or donate via BuyMeACoffee.