FLUX.1 vs Stable Diffusion: The Complete Comparison
Which image generation tool is right for you? A detailed side-by-side analysis of features, pricing, and performance.
Stable Diffusion wins for most users due to its free tier and completely free (self-hosted). Choose FLUX.1 if you need Open-source developers. Choose Stable Diffusion for Developers.
- Price: FLUX.1 starts at Free, Stable Diffusion at Free
- Free tier: Both offer free tiers
- Best for: FLUX.1 → Open-source developers | Stable Diffusion → Developers
- Features: 27+ features across 7 categories
- Our pick: Stable Diffusion for budget-conscious users
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | FLUX.1 | Stable Diffusion |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Black Forest Labs | Stability AI |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| API Access | Yes | Yes |
| Web App | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | No | No |
| Best For | Open-source developers | Developers |
What Are We Comparing?
FLUX.1
Advanced open-source image generation models from Black Forest Labs with multiple variants including FLUX.1 Dev, Schnell, and new Tools suite for editing and control. Offers high-quality text-to-image generation with both free open-source and commercial options.
FLUX.1 is a state-of-the-art image generation platform developed by Black Forest Labs, founded by former Stability AI researchers. The platform offers multiple model variants including FLUX.1 Schnell for fast generation, FLUX.1 Dev for higher quality results, and FLUX.1 Pro for commercial use. The models excel at producing high-quality images from text prompts with efficient processing capabilities. In November 2024, Black Forest Labs expanded the platform with FLUX.1 Tools, a comprehensive suite of editing capabilities including Fill for inpainting/outpainting, Depth for depth-map control, Canny for edge-based control, and Redux for image modification. This makes FLUX.1 not just a text-to-image generator but a complete image creation and editing ecosystem. The open-source nature of most variants makes it particularly attractive for developers and researchers seeking customizable AI image generation solutions.
Stable Diffusion
Advanced open-source text-to-image AI model offering maximum customization and control. Generate high-quality images locally or through cloud services with extensive model ecosystem support.
Stable Diffusion is the leading open-source image generation model, offering complete control and customization. It can be run locally for free, fine-tuned for specific styles, and integrated into any workflow. Massive community with thousands of custom models.
FLUX.1 vs Stable Diffusion Pricing
Here's how the pricing compares between both tools:
FLUX.1
Free Tier AvailableStable Diffusion
Free Tier AvailableFeatures Comparison
FLUX.1 Features
- ✓ Web App
- ✓ Api Access
- ✓ Text To Image
- ✓ Image To Image
- ✓ Batch Generation
- ✓ Local Deployment
Stable Diffusion Features
- ✓ Web App
- ✓ Upscaling
- ✓ Api Access
- ✓ Inpainting
- ✓ File Upload
- ✓ Outpainting
- ✓ Custom Models
- ✓ Text To Image
- ✓ Image To Image
- ✓ Style Transfer
- ✓ Batch Generation
- ✓ Local Deployment
Pros and Cons
FLUX.1
Pros
- High quality open-source models
- Multiple specialized variants available
- New Tools suite for advanced editing
- Efficient generation speed
- Strong community and developer support
Cons
- Newer platform with evolving features
- Commercial Pro version pricing not transparent
- Learning curve for advanced Tools features
Stable Diffusion
Pros
- Completely free (self-hosted)
- Maximum customization
- Huge model ecosystem
- Privacy (local use)
- No content restrictions (local)
Cons
- Requires technical knowledge
- Needs powerful GPU locally
- Inconsistent quality across models
- Stability AI company issues
Who Should Use Each Tool?
Choose FLUX.1 if you need:
- Open-source developers
- AI researchers
- Content creators needing editing tools
- High-volume image generation
- Custom model implementation
Choose Stable Diffusion if you need:
- Developers
- AI researchers
- Custom workflows
- High-volume users
Final Verdict: FLUX.1 vs Stable Diffusion
🏆 Winner: Stable Diffusion
After comparing all aspects, Stable Diffusion comes out slightly ahead for most users. The free tier makes it easy to get started without commitment. Key strength: Completely free (self-hosted).
Bottom line: Use FLUX.1 for Open-source developers. Use Stable Diffusion for Developers. Both are excellent image generation tools in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between FLUX.1 and Stable Diffusion?
FLUX.1 is advanced open-source image generation models from black forest labs with multiple variants including flux.1 dev, schnell, and new tools suite for editing and control. offers high-quality text-to-image generation with both free open-source and commercial options. Stable Diffusion is advanced open-source text-to-image ai model offering maximum customization and control. generate high-quality images locally or through cloud services with extensive model ecosystem support. The main differences are in pricing (Free vs Free), target users, and specific features offered.
Which is better: FLUX.1 or Stable Diffusion?
Stable Diffusion is generally better for most users due to its free tier and completely free (self-hosted). FLUX.1 is best for Open-source developers, while Stable Diffusion shines at Developers.
Is FLUX.1 free to use?
Yes, FLUX.1 offers a free tier with limited features. You can upgrade to paid plans starting at Free for more capabilities.
Is Stable Diffusion free to use?
Yes, Stable Diffusion offers a free tier with limited features. Paid plans start at Free.
Can I switch from FLUX.1 to Stable Diffusion?
Yes, you can switch between these tools at any time. Both are standalone services. Consider your specific needs for Open-source developers vs Developers when deciding.