Upscayl is a free, open-source AI image upscaler for Windows, macOS and Linux that enlarges low-resolution images. The desktop app needs a Vulkan-compatible graphics card. A separate paid service, Upscayl Cloud, runs in the browser from $9.99 a month for 100 images.
Use the official site
The official Upscayl project is at upscayl.org and on GitHub (upscayl/upscayl). upscayl.app is run by a different company, and upscayl.io calls itself an "official build" but doesn't link to the project. Download Upscayl from upscayl.org or GitHub.
Checked October 2, 2026
The bottom line
A versatile AI image upscaler with both free and paid options to suit different user needs.
7.7
Our score
7.7 / 10
Conversion Gems editorial verdict
Free (desktop); Cloud from $9.99/mo
Features8/10
8 - Strong upscaling capabilities with multiple AI models.
7 - User-friendly interface but requires compatible hardware.
Ecosystem6/10
6 - Limited integrations but open-source allows for community-driven extensions.
Support7/10
7 - Active community support; priority support available in paid plans.
Community ratings
2.7/ 5 aggregate · across 1 source
Trustpilot
2.75+ reviews
Third-party ratings shown verbatim; aggregate weighted by review volume.
What it really is
Upscayl — an open-source AI image upscaler available as a free desktop application and a paid cloud service.
Our take
Upscayl offers a robust, free desktop app for local AI-driven image upscaling, complemented by a cloud service for enhanced features and performance. The desktop version is entirely free and open-source, while the cloud service provides additional capabilities at various pricing tiers.
Best for
Photographers needing local upscaling
Designers seeking free AI tools
Users with limited budgets
Not good for
Users without Vulkan-compatible GPUs
Those needing advanced cloud features
Enterprises requiring extensive support
Friction report
Time to value
Fast: Quick setup and immediate upscaling with the desktop app.
Scale breakpoint
Cloud credits may become costly for high-volume users.
Walled garden
Low: Open-source nature allows for customization and integration.
Upscayl pricing
Option
Price
What you get
Desktop app
Free
Open source (AGPL-3.0) for Windows, macOS and Linux; needs a Vulkan-compatible GPU
Cloud trial
$0
10 credits after a short trial application
Cloud Pro
From $9.99/month (100 credits)
Up to 256 MP output, credits roll over, priority support; 300 or 500 credits for $24.99 or $39.99
Cloud Business
From $79.99/month (1,000 credits)
Up to 512 MP output; 2,500 or 5,000 credits for $199.99 or $299.99
One-time pack
$9.99 for 50 credits
Credits never expire
From upscayl.org pricing, checked 2 October 2026. One credit upscales one image. Yearly Cloud plans cost less per month. There are no refunds for unused credits after cancelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
The desktop app is free and open source (AGPL-3.0) for Windows, macOS and Linux. Upscayl Cloud is a separate paid service with a 10-credit free trial; subscriptions start at $9.99 a month for 100 credits (checked 2 October 2026).
For the desktop app, yes: it needs a Vulkan-compatible graphics card, and many integrated graphics chips don't work. Upscayl Cloud runs in the browser with no GPU.
No. The official GitHub project points to upscayl.org. upscayl.app says it is operated by PixelForge LLC, and upscayl.io doesn't link to upscayl.org or the GitHub project.
Not really. Upscayl enlarges and sharpens low-resolution images, but its README says it can't de-blur or fix focus.
Upscayl alternatives
Other image upscalers from our reviews:
Topaz Labs: Professional AI image and video enhancement software.
LetsEnhance: Online AI upscaler and enhancer, up to 16x, including photo restoration.
Claid.ai: Automated image editing and upscaling for e-commerce catalogues.
