Model comparison
Compare GPT-Image-2 and Midjourney V8.2 using the same provider-sourced image generation rubric. No mystery score and no invented benchmark ranking.
Facts checked September 4, 2026
Set your usage. Your estimate updates as you type.
Example output: square 1,024 × 1,024 images. Prices depend on supported resolution and quality; edits and retries can cost extra.
Estimates exclude taxes, tools, cache storage/writes, free allowances and custom discounts. Image estimates cover output only, not prompt or reference-image charges. Quality modes differ by model. Unlisted settings are not treated as free.
| Model | Access | Estimated total (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-Image-2OpenAI | OpenAI | No reviewed rate |
| Midjourney V8.2Midjourney | Midjourney | No reviewed rate |
Quick take
OpenAI's current image model for detailed generation and editing, especially complex prompts, text-heavy visuals, and high-fidelity source images.
Do not treat the lowest per-image price as typical: quality, resolution, input images, and thinking/token use all change the final bill.
Midjourney's current default image model for highly polished, style-led creative work, with stronger personalization and a new reference-based Edit Model.
There is no general public API. Creations are open by default, Stealth requires a Pro or Mega plan, and Midjourney says user prompts and images can be used for training.
Compare the published facts
Values use each provider's own published units and limits. A blank means the provider did not publish a directly comparable value in the sources reviewed.
| Image generation | GPT-Image-2 | Midjourney V8.2 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price basisA representative current provider price with its quality or resolution basis. | $0.006–$0.211 at 1024² on fal | From $10/month; Stealth from $60/month |
| Maximum outputMaximum documented resolution or pixel area for the listed route. | Up to about 4K / 8.29MP on fal | 2048×2048 at 1:1 in HD |
| Core tasksWhether the model supports generation, editing, or both. | Generation and editing | Generation, variations, and Edit Model |
| Reference imagesHow the model can use images to guide or edit an output. | High-fidelity image input | Up to 4 through the V8 Edit Model |
| Text & layoutProvider-documented positioning for typography and structured composition. | Designed for detailed text-heavy images | Improved text and prompt adherence in the V8 family |
| API accessDirect and notable third-party routes included in this guide. | OpenAI, fal | Website and Discord; no general public API |
How to choose
Start with the job you need to complete, then validate cost, access, and policy details on your exact provider route.
For direct OpenAI API use, API content is not used for training by default and standard retention controls apply. fal stores request input/output by default, but its no-store header can prevent payload storage; uploaded CDN files require separate handling.
Provider and API links
Midjourney is open by default unless eligible users enable Stealth mode. Its public training summary says prompts, images, and preference data from user interactions are used in model training, so do not assume API-style no-training terms.
Provider and API links
Frequently asked questions
GPT-Image-2: OpenAI's current image model for detailed generation and editing, especially complex prompts, text-heavy visuals, and high-fidelity source images. Midjourney V8.2: Midjourney's current default image model for highly polished, style-led creative work, with stronger personalization and a new reference-based Edit Model.
Consider GPT-Image-2 when your priority is Text-heavy graphics and infographics. Consider Midjourney V8.2 when your priority is Art direction and visual exploration. Test both with your own data and provider route before committing.
No. This comparison aligns provider-published facts for the Image generation category. It does not claim a universal winner or combine incompatible third-party benchmark scores.
