Melies
Image Model Comparison

GPT Image 2 vs GPT Image 1.5

The generational upgrade. GPT Image 2 adds flexible resolutions up to 4K and improved text rendering over 1.5.

GPT Image 2 and GPT Image 1.5 are both made by OpenAI, but they serve different purposes. OpenAI's latest image model with state-of-the-art photorealism, pixel-perfect text rendering, and flexible resolutions up to 4K. Meanwhile, openAI's #1 ranked image model with exceptional prompt adherence, photorealism, and text rendering. Choosing between them comes down to what you prioritize: Highest quality generation, or Highest quality generation.

At 15 credits, GPT Image 1.5 costs 5 credits less than GPT Image 2 (20 credits). The question is whether the extra cost of GPT Image 2 translates into meaningfully better results for your use case. For highest quality generation, text rendering, photorealism, GPT Image 1.5 is hard to beat at its price point. But if you need highest quality generation, text rendering, photorealism, product photography, GPT Image 2 may justify the premium.

Updated May 2026

The Bottom Line

GPT Image 1.5 (15 credits) offers better value for everyday use, especially for highest quality generation. GPT Image 2 (20 credits) is worth the premium when you need highest quality generation. Both are available on Melies — try each with a test prompt to see which fits your style.

GPT Image 2 vs GPT Image 1.5: How They Compare

OpenAIGPT Image 2
OpenAIGPT Image 1.5
ProviderOpenAIOpenAI
ReleasedApr 2026Jan 2026
Cost
20
15
SpeedMediumMedium
Reference imagesUp to 1Up to 1
Editing

GPT Image 2 vs GPT Image 1.5: Cost Comparison

GPT Image 1.5 is 25% cheaper than GPT Image 2. Here's how credits add up at scale.

VolumeGPT Image 2GPT Image 1.5
10 images 200 150
50 images 1,000 750
100 images 2,000 1,500

Strengths & Weaknesses

OpenAI

GPT Image 2

Strengths
  • + Highest quality generation
  • + More resolution options
  • + State-of-the-art photorealism
  • + Pixel-perfect text rendering (99%+ accuracy)
  • + Flexible resolutions up to 4K
Weaknesses
  • - More expensive (20 vs 15 credits)
OpenAI

GPT Image 1.5

Strengths
  • + More affordable (15 vs 20 credits)
  • + Highest quality generation
  • + #1 on all major image leaderboards
  • + Transparent background support
  • + Strong text rendering and typography
Weaknesses
  • - Higher price point relative to speed tier

GPT Image 2 vs GPT Image 1.5: Which to Pick?

On a tight budget

At 15 credits per image, GPT Image 1.5 gives you more generations for your plan. Good enough quality for most everyday use.

GPT Image 1.5

Maximum quality matters

GPT Image 2 is worth the extra credits when the output needs to be perfect — portfolio pieces, client work, or final deliverables.

GPT Image 2

Character or style consistency

GPT Image 2 supports 1 reference images to keep subjects, styles, and characters consistent across generations.

GPT Image 2

GPT Image 2 vs GPT Image 1.5: FAQ

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Try GPT Image 2 & GPT Image 1.5

Compare GPT Image 2, GPT Image 1.5, and 15+ AI image models side by side. Switch models with one click, same credits.

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