Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the way we enhance images and videos. AI upscaling tools can intelligently enhance your still and moving images and videos, with both free and paid tools available that run natively and in the cloud. In this blog, we will compare two popular AI upscaling tools, Video2x vs Topaz with their features, prices, and performance.
Video2x
Price: Free
User interface: Command prompt
Speed: Very slow
Control: Minimal
Output quality: High
Suitable for: Animation or cartoon videos
Supported platforms: Windows, Linux, macOS
Topaz AI
Price: $299
User interface: User-friendly
Speed: Fast
Control: High
Output quality: Very High
Suitable for: Real videos
Supported platforms: Windows with NVIDIA 900-series (version 12) or newer GPU, at least 4GB VRAM, or, Mac with M-Series CPU
Video2x
Video2x is a free and open-source video upscaler that runs locally on your computer. It features multiple upscaling options, and the ability to customize output image type (JPG, PNG, WebP) and location. Results from Video2x are impressive, with options for upscaling standard photographs, digital artwork, anime videos, cartons, and sharpening images too. Video2x uses a combination of waifu2x, Anime4K, SRMD, RealSR, and Real-CUGAN upscales to produce high-quality results. However, Video2x is very slow and can take a long time to upscale videos. For example, for a 20-minute video, it can take more than 2 days to upscale. Video2x also takes a few steps to upscale your videos and has minimal control. It doesn’t have an easy interface, and you have to use command prompts. Video2x is suitable for upscaling animation or cartoon videos.
Topaz Video AI
Topaz is a paid upscaling tool that promises to upscale images by up to 600%. The app has made quite a name for itself among professional circles. Topaz Video AI is probably the best video upscaling tool you can buy, with a price tag to match. Though $299 seems like a lot of money (it is), Topaz Video AI is yours to keep once you’ve paid for it, with no ongoing fees to speak of. Topaz Labs actually produced the clearest result, but it is a separate piece of software to add to your workflow. Topaz Video AI uses a proprietary AI engine that is capable of producing stunning results with high levels of detail. Topaz needs Windows with NVIDIA 900-series (version 12) or newer GPU, at least 4GB VRAM, or, Mac with an M-Series CPU. Topaz is super easy to work with and has a user-friendly interface. The output of Topaz Video AI is more detailed and suitable for realistic videos. Topaz is speed comparing video2x.
In terms of budget, Video2x is a great option for those who want a free upscaler for single or batch jobs. Topaz, on the other hand, is the best upscaling tool money can buy, with a price tag to match. Topaz is expensive, but it’s a one-time purchase with no ongoing fees. Ultimately, the choice between Video2x and Topaz depends on your specific needs and budget. You can find more about the best AI video upscaling softwares in 2024 from here.
