Comparing Flux AI Models with SD3 and PonyXL

Intro: Flux AI Model Comparison

Note: This article is based on a Reddit post by u/Elf_Witch. You can find the original discussion here.

So, there's a new player in the AI image generation game: Flux AI by Black Forest Labs. It has three versions—Flux Schnell, Flux Dev, and Flux Pro. Let's compare them with SD3 and a well-known model based on PonyXL called GODDESS of Realism. Here’s what I found out when I tested them all with the same prompt.

Prompt Used for Testing

First, here’s the prompt I used:

wide shot from above sitting, between the legs, arm at side, head tilt, (enchanting elf with long pointed ears) young woman, slender build, high elf, fair skin, golden eyes, wavy hair, wearing a soft lavender luxurious elven dress, satin ballet shoes with ethereal motifs, elven ear cuffs, moonstone ring, silver eyeliner, leaf-shaped brooch, set in an otherworldly enchanted forest, with glowing plants, magical creatures, and an enchanting ambiance, in the moonlight

Prompt Link

https://civitai.com/models/618578/flux-dev-hi-res-fix-inpainting-img2img?modelVersionId=693048

Issue 1: Image Quality

Issue Description

When comparing the images, I noticed that the Flux Schnell images seemed a bit "uncooked" and less refined compared to Flux Dev and Flux Pro.

Example:

Flux Schnell:

Solution: Use Flux Dev or Pro for High Quality

Flux Dev and Pro provided significantly better details. For professional work, stick to these versions.

Comparative Example:

Flux Pro:

Issue 2: Detailing in Specific Areas (Hands, Lower Limbs)

Issue Description

People can often spot AI-generated images by looking at hands and lower limbs. For example, the knee placement under a skirt in one of the images seemed off.

Comment Explanation:

Middle finger below fingernail is an obvious example:

Solution: Use Multiple Models

Use Flux models in combination with others like SDXL for overall better accuracy in specific areas.

Comparative Example:

SD3:

Issue 3: Licensing and Commercial Use

Issue Description

Commercial use of these models can be tricky due to varying licenses. Flux Dev is free to use locally, but commercial use isn't straightforward.

License Comment:

Under section 2 part b they have this in their license:
*If You want to use a FLUX.1 \[dev\] Model a Derivative for any purpose that is not expressly authorized under this License, such as for a commercial activity, you must request a license from Company.*: [LICENSE LINK](https://huggingface.co/black-forest-labs/FLUX.1-dev/blob/main/LICENSE.md)

Solution: Contact Black Forest Labs

If you want to use Flux AI models for commercial purposes, it's best to directly contact Black Forest Labs for licensing options.

Contact Info:

Email: info@blackforestlabs.ai

Final Thoughts

Closing Remarks

Overall, Flux Dev and Pro are very impressive and competitive. It just may take a bit of trial and error to find the best fit for your needs. Keep experimenting with prompts, and you'll likely achieve great results.

Additional Resources

For more detailed evaluations and user experiences, check out these links:

Additional Link:

GODDESS of Realism (PonyXL based): Model Page