Model comparison · OpenAI vs ByteDance
GPT Image vs Seedream: which image model should you use?
GPT Image and Seedream are both text-to-image and reference-editing models. Compare their live sizes, aspect ratios and reference limits.
GPT Image at a glance
GPT Image is OpenAI's image generation model family. MotionLab runs the GPT Image versions enabled below for text-to-image and reference-image editing, and any result can go straight into image-to-video.
| Variant | Modes | Resolution | Aspect ratios | Reference images |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPT Image 2.5 Sunburst | Text to image · Image editing | 1k · 2k · 4k | auto · 1:1 · 3:2 · 2:3 · 4:3 · 3:4 · 16:9 · 9:16 · 21:9 · 27:16 · 16:27 · 9:8 · 8:9 | Up to 16 |
| GPT Image 2.5 Flare | Text to image · Image editing | 1k · 2k · 4k | auto · 1:1 · 3:2 · 2:3 · 4:3 · 3:4 · 16:9 · 9:16 · 21:9 · 27:16 · 16:27 · 9:8 · 8:9 | Up to 16 |
| GPT Image 2 | Text to image · Image editing | — | 1:1 · 16:9 · 9:16 · 4:3 · 3:4 · 3:2 · 2:3 · 21:9 · 9:21 · 5:4 · 4:5 · 2.35:1 · auto | Up to 4 |
Seedream at a glance
Seedream is ByteDance's image generation family. MotionLab runs the Seedream versions enabled below for text-to-image and reference-image editing, priced per image in MotionLab credits.
| Variant | Modes | Resolution | Aspect ratios | Reference images |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seedream V5 Pro | Text to image · Image editing | — | 1:1 · 16:9 · 9:16 · 4:3 · 3:4 · 3:2 · 2:3 · 21:9 · 9:21 · 5:4 · 4:5 · 2.35:1 · auto | Up to 10 |
| Seedream V5 Lite | Text to image · Image editing | — | 1:1 · 16:9 · 9:16 · 4:3 · 3:4 · 3:2 · 2:3 · 21:9 · 9:21 · 5:4 · 4:5 · 2.35:1 · auto | Up to 10 |
When to choose GPT Image
- Images that need legible text, labels or layout.
- Editing an existing image with instructions while keeping the rest intact.
- Product shots and mockups to animate later with a video model.
- Storyboard frames and style frames for a video project.
When to choose Seedream
- High-resolution stills for posters, thumbnails and key art.
- Reference-based edits that keep a subject consistent across a series.
- Start frames for image-to-video with Seedance or other video models.
- Fast explorations on the lighter tier before a final render.
How to run a fair comparison
- Use the same prompt and the same aspect ratio on both models.
- Match output size where both models support it; the tables above show the overlap.
- Generate two or three takes per model. One take of each says more about luck than about the model.
- Judge at full size on the screen it is made for: detail, prompt adherence, text rendering and artefacts.
- Compare cost per usable take, not cost per generation.
Related comparisons
GPT Image vs Seedream questions
Is GPT Image or Seedream better?
It depends on the shot. Compare the modes and settings in the table above, then run the same prompt through both on MotionLab and judge the results side by side. Both use the same credit balance.
Can I use GPT Image and Seedream with one account?
Yes. Both are available from the same MotionLab model picker while they are enabled, and every result lands in one library.
Which is cheaper, GPT Image or Seedream?
The credit cost depends on the variant and settings you choose and is shown before you generate. See the pricing page for credit packs.