Nowadays, it becomes very important to have high-quality images due to the increased number of high-resolution displays and the necessity for clear and detailed visuals. Nonetheless, how do you enlarge an image without losing quality? This is where image upscalers come into play. 

It is a software that utilizes machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to increase the size of pictures while at the same time maintain or even enhance quality. In this article, we will compare some of the best upscalings tools available in the market today. You will know how each operates and get few tips on what you have to do so that you obtain better results. Continue reading if you want to find an ideal imaging solution for your case of enlarging images. 

How Image Upscaling Works? 

To enlarge and enhance images, image upscaling utilizes algorithms as well as machine learning models. These are some of the main techniques used: 

• Nearest neighbor interpolation – In this simplest method, one replaces the pixel in the upscaled image with the nearest pixel from the original image. 

• Bicubic interpolation – This is more sophisticated than nearest neighbor and uses a mathematical model to compute pixel values based on neighboring pixels. It gives smoother edges but may be blurry. 

• AI and deep learning – Modern upscalers employ convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that have been trained on large datasets of images so they can predict missing pixel data.  

• Generative adversarial networks (GANs) – Some upscalers use GANs which consist of two neural networks competing to refine the upscaled image. The results are photorealistic. 

Top Image Upscalers in 2024 

1. HitPaw FotorPea

HitPaw FotorPea is our top pick for best overall 4k image upscaler. Originally launched as HitPaw Photo Enhancer, FotorPea leverages leading-edge AI to enlarge and enhance images with stunning quality. 

With its user-friendly interface and versatile editing tools, FotorPea is an accessible option for casual users and professionals alike. The AI photo enhancer excels at boosting clarity, sharpness and color in images of all types. Beyond upscaling, it also functions as an all-in-one editor with object removal, photo effects, intelligent cropping, and more. It is the best AI image upscaler. 

Key Features 

• Uses AI to upscale images up to 8x larger, enhancing quality and adding natural details 

• Photo Enhancer applies customizable sharpening, noise reduction, color correction and other adjustments 

• Integrated object remover can erase unwanted elements from photos with a click 

• AI Art Generator turns text into unique artwork illustrations 

• Passport photo maker resizes images to official size requirements 

• Al Portrait Generator enhances faces in portraits with photorealistic results 

How it Stands Out 

FotorPea stands out for its cutting-edge AI that can enlarge images while retaining a natural look, as opposed to a processed or artificial appearance. The integrated editing features also make it easy to further refine images after upscaling. For those looking for an all-in-one editor with powerful upsampling capabilities, FotorPea is a top choice. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Using FotorPea for Upscaling 

Here is how to upscale an image:  

1. Download and install FotorPea from their website. 

1. Upload the image you want to upscale. You can drag and drop the file into FotorPea or use the file browser. 

1. FotorPea will automatically select an AI model to process the image. You can choose from models optimized for faces, landscapes, low-light photos, and more. 

1. Click the “Preview” button to see the upscaled image. FotorPea uses the selected AI model to enlarge and enhance the photo. 

1. If satisfied with the preview, click “Export” to save the upscaled version of your image. The free version watermarks exported images. 

2. Topaz Gigapixel AI

Topaz Gigapixel AI is an advanced photo enlargement software that leverages AI to upscale images while preserving or enhancing quality. It can enlarge photos up to 600% their original size for printing or other uses. 

Key Features 

• Uses AI models trained on millions of image pairs to upscale photos with realistic detail 

• Can enlarge images up to 600% with options for controlling image dimensions  

• Features specialized AI models for portraits, landscapes, artwork, and noise reduction 

• Offers control over parameters like noise reduction, sharpening, color correction 

• Works as a Photoshop plugin or standalone program on Windows and Mac 

3. Let’s Enhance

Let’s Enhance is an online photo enhancer that utilizes AI to upscale images quickly right in your web browser. It’s easy to use and great for casual one-off edits. 

Key Features 

• Web-based so no download required, upscales photos in browser 

• Leverages AI to enlarge images up to 4x with decent quality  

• Simple sliders for adjusting brightness, contrast, vibrance 

• Automatic enhancement presets optimize photos with one click 

• Mobile apps available for iOS and Android devices 

Comparison of Features and Pricing 

Choosing the Right Image Upscaler for Your Needs 

With the variety of AI image upscalers available, it can be tricky to decide which one is the best fit for your specific needs. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing an upscaler: 

• Image Quality – Upscalers use different AI techniques, so compare image samples to find one that sharpens and enhances images well while minimizing artifacts. Prioritize quality over maximum enlargement if preservation is important. 

• Specialized Models – Some upscalers like Topaz Gigapixel AI offer models optimized for portraits, landscapes and other image types. Choose one with models relevant to your images. 

• Features – Consider must-have features like batch processing, noise reduction and file format support. FotorPea provides a fuller creative suite beyond just upscaling. 

• Platform – Opt for desktop software if you need robust controls, or web/mobile apps for accessibility. Let’s Enhance is great for quick online upscaling. 

• Use Cases – The best upscaler depends on your goals. For archiving old images, maximize quality. For web images, balance quality and speed. 

Conclusion 

Image enhancers are important for increasing the sizes and improving the quality of the photos for different purposes. The big guns in this niche including HitPaw and FotorPea, have a very unique way of using AI that takes image quality beyond normal upscaling methods. 

Among them, image quality, platform, price as well as use case are important considerations when selecting an upscaler. As it comes with a friendly interface, versatile editing tools and modern AI enhancing functionalities, hitpaw fotorpea is one of those affordable yet sophisticated ones. If you want to effectively improve old pictures with low resolutions then choose FotorPea.