5 AI Image Generators for Text Prompts and Photo Editing

AI image generators differ more in workflow, editing control, privacy, and usage rights than in their marketing claims. This list covers five distinct options: an open-source project, two art-focused services, OpenAI's current image generation, and a community platform. Free access and generation limits change frequently, so check the current plan before committing to a project.

Examples of images created from text prompts with AI tools

Quick comparison

Tool	Best for	Main limitation
Pixray	Technical users and local experimentation	Older project with a command-line setup
starryai	Guided art creation on web or mobile	Credit and plan limits
ChatGPT Images	Conversational generation and targeted edits	Usage limits vary by plan
Dream by WOMBO	Fast style-based artwork	Many advanced options are premium
Deep Dream Generator	Model experimentation and community sharing	Credits and public-sharing defaults need review

1. Pixray: open-source text-to-image experimentation

Pixray is an open-source image-generation system that can run from Python or the command line. It combines several earlier generation approaches and exposes technical settings that hosted consumer tools often hide.

Pixray text-to-image example

Choose it when: you are comfortable with Python environments and want to inspect or modify an older open-source workflow.

Consider first: the project is not a simple replacement for a modern browser generator. Setup, model downloads, hardware requirements, and generation speed depend on how you run it. Use the repository documentation instead of unverified installers.

2. starryai: guided styles and image references

starryai accepts text prompts, images, and sketches, and provides a library of models and styles. It works through the web and mobile apps, making it more accessible than a command-line tool.

starryai image-generation interface

Choose it when: you want style presets and a guided interface rather than detailed local setup.

Consider first: free generations, credits, model access, and licensing terms can change. Confirm whether a result will be public and what rights apply before uploading a client's photo or creating commercial assets.

3. ChatGPT Images: generation and editing in conversation

DALL·E 2 was important historically, but the screenshot and launch claims in the original article are outdated. OpenAI's current image tools can create images from instructions and edit uploaded or generated images. For developers, the official OpenAI image-generation guide documents generation and editing through the API.

Legacy DALL-E 2 image-generation interface

Choose it when: you want to refine a visual through follow-up instructions, add legible text, change part of an existing image, or request a transparent background.

Consider first: do not treat a generated image as proof of an event or an accurate representation of a real person. Review output for factual, cultural, and brand errors before publishing it.

4. Dream by WOMBO: fast art from a prompt and style

Dream by WOMBO creates images from text prompts and a selected visual style. It is available on the web and through mobile apps, and it can also use an uploaded image as a starting point in supported workflows.

Dream by WOMBO AI artwork example

Choose it when: you want a fast, art-oriented result with minimal setup.

Consider first: style presets can dominate a vague prompt. Describe the subject, composition, lighting, and important constraints before choosing a style. Check plan restrictions for high-resolution output or advanced editing.

5. Deep Dream Generator: model choice and community exploration

Deep Dream Generator now offers text-to-image, image transformation, and AI video features across several models. It also has a public creative community, so review visibility settings before submitting private source material.

Deep Dream Generator AI image example

Choose it when: you want to compare different artistic models or explore work shared by other creators.

Consider first: the service is not a Google product, despite the historical connection of the phrase “DeepDream” with research published by Google. Credits and model access vary by plan.

How to get a more useful result

State the purpose: product mockup, editorial illustration, game concept, social graphic, or another concrete use.
Describe the composition: subject, action, environment, viewpoint, and aspect ratio.
Specify visual constraints: palette, lighting, material, medium, and any required text.
Review details: hands, labels, logos, reflections, and background objects often need correction.
Check rights and privacy: use source images you may legally upload and read the tool's current commercial-use terms.

No generator is automatically “best” for every project. Use Pixray for technical control, starryai or Dream for fast styled art, ChatGPT Images for iterative instruction and editing, and Deep Dream Generator for model exploration.

For another paid option, read the guide to creating images with Midjourney. To compare tools that may offer limited free access, see free alternatives to Midjourney.