Open-source Flux Dev vs ByteDance's Seedream — 5 credits vs 10 credits.
Flux Dev from Black Forest Labs and Seedream 4.5 from ByteDance represent two different approaches to AI image generation. Open-weight 12B model ideal for experimentation and custom workflows. On the other side, byteDance's flagship model with stunning aesthetics and complex scene understanding.
Both models cost 10 credits per generation, so the decision comes down to capabilities rather than budget. Flux Dev excels at experimentation, custom workflows, good value, while Seedream 4.5 is better suited for artistic scenes, complex compositions, high-resolution output.
Updated March 2026
Both cost 10 credits, so pick based on your needs. Go with Flux Dev for experimentation. Choose Seedream 4.5 if you need artistic scenes. Since they're the same price on Melies, try both and see which output style you prefer.
Both generated with the same prompt and seed 42. Click to view full size.
| Provider | Black Forest Labs | ByteDance |
| Released | Aug 2024 | Dec 2025 |
| Cost | 10 | 10 |
| Speed | Medium | Medium |
| Reference images | Up to 10 | |
| Editing |
Both models cost the same. Here's how credits add up at scale.
| Volume | Flux Dev | Seedream 4.5 |
|---|---|---|
| 10 images | 100 | 100 |
| 50 images | 500 | 500 |
| 100 images | 1,000 | 1,000 |
At 10 credits per image, Flux Dev gives you more generations for your plan. Good enough quality for most everyday use.
Seedream 4.5 supports 10 reference images to keep subjects, styles, and characters consistent across generations.





Compare Flux Dev, Seedream 4.5, and 15+ AI image models side by side. Switch models with one click, same credits.
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