What Upscayl does
Upscayl is a free, open-source desktop app that enlarges and sharpens low-resolution images with AI. It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, supports several upscaling models, batch processing and upscaling an image twice for extra size, up to 16x. The team also runs Upscayl Cloud, a paid online version that adds larger outputs, face enhancement, cloud storage and image generation, and works from phones and tablets.
Best for
- Enlarging old or low-resolution photos
- Batch upscaling images on your own computer
- Preparing images for print
- Users who prefer free open-source software
Key features
Up to 16x upscaling
Enlarges images with a choice of AI models.
Batch processing
Upscales a whole folder of images in one go.
Double Upscayl
Runs an image through the upscaler twice for larger output.
Runs locally
The desktop app processes images on your own Windows, Mac or Linux machine.
Upscayl Cloud
Paid online version with face enhancement, cloud storage, image generation and up to 256MP output on Pro.
Upscayl pricing
Upscayl has a free plan. The desktop app is free and open source; Upscayl Cloud has a free trial of 10 credits. Paid plans start at $24.99. Upscayl Cloud free trial with 10 credits (application required). Upscayl Cloud offers credit tiers from 100 to 5,000 per month, billed monthly or annually (up to 40% off annually); only the Pro price was shown. Custom plans need a sales call. Prices checked on the official site on Nov 9, 2026.
| Desktop | $0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud Pro | $24.99 | 300 credits per month; billing period not labeled |
Source: Upscayl pricing page
Pros and cons
What it does well
- Desktop app is free and open source.
- Available on Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Batch mode handles many images at once.
Know before you sign up
- Cloud features such as face enhancement and image generation need a paid Upscayl Cloud plan.
- Cloud pricing for most credit tiers is not shown publicly.
- The Cloud trial requires filling in an application.
Alternatives to Upscayl
Bing Image CreatorCreate and remix images from prompts.
ClipdropEdit and generate images in a visual suite.
FLUX 3 ImageGenerate images with Black Forest Labs models.- MidjourneyGenerate and refine images from prompts and references.
Adobe FireflyGenerate visual and audio creative assets.
CanvaCreate visual assets with Canva AI design tools.
Questions about Upscayl
What is Upscayl?
Upscayl is a free, open-source desktop app that enlarges and sharpens low-resolution images with AI. It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, supports several upscaling models, batch processing and upscaling an image twice for extra size, up to 16x. The team also runs Upscayl Cloud, a paid online version that adds larger outputs, face enhancement, cloud storage and image generation, and works from phones and tablets.
Is Upscayl free?
Upscayl has a free plan. The desktop app is free and open source; Upscayl Cloud has a free trial of 10 credits. Paid plans start at $24.99. Upscayl Cloud free trial with 10 credits (application required). Upscayl Cloud offers credit tiers from 100 to 5,000 per month, billed monthly or annually (up to 40% off annually); only the Pro price was shown. Custom plans need a sales call. Prices checked on the official site on Nov 9, 2026.
How much does Upscayl cost?
Paid plans start at $24.99; plans listed on the official pricing page: Desktop ($0), Cloud Pro ($24.99). Upscayl Cloud offers credit tiers from 100 to 5,000 per month, billed monthly or annually (up to 40% off annually); only the Pro price was shown. Custom plans need a sales call.
Who is Upscayl best for?
Enlarging old or low-resolution photos, Batch upscaling images on your own computer, Preparing images for print and Users who prefer free open-source software.
Where can I use Upscayl?
Upscayl is available on Windows, Mac, Linux and Web, according to its official site.
What are some alternatives to Upscayl?
Similar image & design tools include Bing Image Creator, Clipdrop, FLUX 3 Image and Midjourney. Compare them on the Image & design page.