- AI upscaler landing pages often feature misleading before/after comparisons that don't reflect real results.
- Many web-based upscalers charge subscription fees and run on rented servers, while expensive desktop apps require large model downloads and complex settings.
- By 2026, users can run effective upscaling on their own computers without relying on third-party services.
- A 'stamp benchmark' using a small passport photo (367x479px) upscaled 4x reveals that Upscayl's models (Standard, Lite, High Fidelity, Remacri, Ultramix Balanced, Ultrasharp, Digital Art) produce waxy, overly smooth, or artifact-laden results.
- Enlarger’s base model retains natural skin detail, birthmarks, and texture, albeit with added noise in the background.
- Upscayl is suitable for Linux users, free use, and illustrations; Enlarger is recommended for photographic work, print, and batch processing.