Google vs ByteDance — two different approaches to top-tier image generation.
Nano Banana 2 from Google and Seedream 4.5 from ByteDance represent two different approaches to AI image generation. Google's latest image model with exceptional text rendering and multi-image compositing. On the other side, byteDance's flagship model with stunning aesthetics and complex scene understanding.
At 10 credits, Seedream 4.5 costs 5 credits less than Nano Banana 2 (15 credits). The question is whether the extra cost of Nano Banana 2 translates into meaningfully better results for your use case. For artistic scenes, complex compositions, high-resolution output, Seedream 4.5 is hard to beat at its price point. But if you need text rendering, character consistency, multi-image compositing, Nano Banana 2 may justify the premium.
Updated March 2026
Seedream 4.5 (10 credits) offers better value for everyday use, especially for artistic scenes. Nano Banana 2 (15 credits) is worth the premium when you need text rendering. Both are available on Melies — try each with a test prompt to see which fits your style.
Both generated with the same prompt and seed 42. Click to view full size.
| Provider | ByteDance | |
| Released | Feb 2026 | Dec 2025 |
| Cost | 80.5K/151K/252K/404K | 10 |
| Speed | Fast | Medium |
| Reference images | Up to 14 | Up to 10 |
| Editing | ||
| WebP output |
Seedream 4.5 is 33% cheaper than Nano Banana 2. Here's how credits add up at scale.
| Volume | Nano Banana 2 | Seedream 4.5 |
|---|---|---|
| 10 images | 150 | 100 |
| 50 images | 750 | 500 |
| 100 images | 1,500 | 1,000 |
At 10 credits per image, Seedream 4.5 gives you more generations for your plan. Good enough quality for most everyday use.
Nano Banana 2 is worth the extra credits when the output needs to be perfect — portfolio pieces, client work, or final deliverables.
Nano Banana 2 supports 14 reference images to keep subjects, styles, and characters consistent across generations.
Nano Banana 2's fast generation means you can test more prompts in less time. Great for exploration.





Compare Nano Banana 2, Seedream 4.5, and 15+ AI image models side by side. Switch models with one click, same credits.
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