Upscayl review
A flexible upscaler with free local processing and credit-based cloud plans.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Upscayl is an AI image upscaling product for creators, designers, artists, developers, businesses, and other image-focused users. Its free, open-source desktop application processes images locally on Windows, macOS, and Linux, while Upscayl Cloud provides browser-based processing without requiring local graphics hardware. The product supports PNG, JPG, JPEG, JFIF, and WebP inputs, with features including multiple AI models, custom model support, batch processing, face enhancement, double upscaling, natural-language image editing, and AI image generation.
The main distinction is between the free desktop application and the credit-based Cloud offering. The Free Trial includes 10 credits. The Pro Plan is listed at $24.99 per month and includes 300 credits monthly, unused-credit rollover, priority support, six months of unlimited storage, upscaling up to 256MP, and AI image generation. Business adds upscaling for images up to 512MP, while Custom offers a custom credit amount, priority email and chat support, AI image generation, and unlimited storage. The published plans show paid Cloud features are designed for users who need browser-based processing, storage, or higher-capacity workflows.
Platform coverage is a notable strength: Upscayl is available on the web, Windows, macOS, Linux, and through an API. Local desktop processing suits users who want a free workflow built around their own computer, while Cloud extends access to browser and programmatic use. Multiple models and custom model support give technically oriented users more control than a single-model tool. Choose Upscayl if open-source desktop access, local processing, batch work, or model flexibility matters. Consider another option if you want one unified product experience or prefer unlimited cloud processing without credit-based plans.
Upscayl pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Batch processing, custom models, face enhancement, and double upscaling
- Web, desktop, and API access with cloud storage and AI generation
- Where it doesn't
- Cloud subscriptions start at $24.99 per month
- Desktop and Cloud are separate offerings with different workflows
- Cloud usage is credit-based, including a 10-credit free trial
Upscayl fact sheet, pricing and score →
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