Decision Support · Side-by-side
Compare pricing, strengths, and use cases so it is easier to pick the right fit.
Change tools
For most everyday users, Bigjpg is the better choice because it offers a clear freemium model, handles both anime and photos reasonably well, and has a dedicated desktop client for batch work. Waifu2x is free and simpler for quick one-off anime upscales, but lacks a mobile app, clear pricing, and struggles with realistic images. The single biggest difference is that Bigjpg provides a structured paid upgrade path with priority processing, while waifu2x is entirely web-based with no support or guarantees.
Bigjpg
waifu2x
Scores at a glance
Choose Bigjpg if
Choose waifu2x if
Key differences
Facts side by side
| Bigjpg | waifu2x | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | ||
| Mobile app | ||
| API access |
Common questions
Yes, Bigjpg is better for regular anime upscaling because it offers higher upscale factors (up to 16x), batch processing, and priority processing for paid users. Waifu2x is fine for a quick free job, but Bigjpg gives you more control and speed.
You can use waifu2x in your phone's browser, but there is no dedicated mobile app. The interface is simple enough to work on a small screen, but uploading large images from your phone may be slow.
Neither is great for realistic human skin. Bigjpg has a 'Photo' mode that works okay for landscapes or objects, but it can make skin look waxy. Waifu2x is even worse for photos. For people photos, consider a dedicated photo upscaler like Topaz Gigapixel.
No, the free tier works, but it's slow and limits file size to 10MB. If you only upscale a few small images per month, free is fine. For regular use or larger images, the $6/month plan is worth it for priority processing and 50MB file limit.
Bigjpg's terms allow commercial use of upscaled images, but check their latest policy. Waifu2x is open-source and generally free for any use, but since it's community-run, there's no official commercial license. When in doubt, use Bigjpg's paid plan for commercial work.
Bigjpg wins for regular use and batch work; waifu2x is a free, no-fuss option for one-off anime upscales.
If you upscale anime or digital art more than once a month, go with Bigjpg — it's cheap, fast on paid plans, and handles batches. If you just need a quick free upscale for a single image, waifu2x is fine. For photos of people, skip both and look for a dedicated photo upscaler.
