Cheapest AI Image Generators (2026)
Which AI image tools cost the least — and which give you free daily credits.
By Editorial team · January 19, 2026 · 1 min read
AI image generation can get expensive fast if you pick the wrong plan. Here's how to keep costs down.
Free daily credits
Leonardo AI gives you a daily allowance of free credits that refresh each day, making it the go-to for cost-conscious creators. Adobe Firefly also includes free monthly generative credits, which is handy if you already use Adobe apps.
Cheapest paid entry
Midjourney has a low entry plan, but no free tier — you pay from the first image. If you want the lowest possible ongoing cost, Leonardo's free credits usually beat paying monthly.
Best value overall
Value isn't only about price. Midjourney's image quality is exceptional, so a small monthly fee may be worth it for professional work. For experimentation and learning, free daily credits win. Our Leonardo AI vs Midjourney comparison breaks down exactly when each is the better deal.
Prices shift regularly, so verify the current plans before committing.