Stable Diffusion is a family of open image generation models developed by Stability AI. Unlike most image tools, you can download the model weights and run them on your own computer, fine-tune them on your own images, and build them into your own products.
The current Stable Diffusion 3.5 suite is available under Stability AI’s Community License, which is free for researchers, developers, small businesses and creators with less than $1 million in annual revenue. Larger companies need an Enterprise License.
Key features
- Stable Diffusion 3.5 models in sizes for high quality or fast generation.
- Local generation through popular interfaces such as ComfyUI and Automatic1111.
- Fine-tuning and LoRAs to train your own styles, products or characters.
- ControlNet and image-to-image for precise control over poses, layouts and edits.
- Inpainting and outpainting to edit or extend images.
- Stability AI API and Brand Studio for hosted generation without your own hardware.
Stable Diffusion pricing
| Option | Price | Who it is for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community License | Free | Individuals and businesses under $1M revenue | Commercial use allowed; includes SD 3.5 suite |
| Enterprise License | Custom | Businesses above $1M revenue and API providers | Commercial use and implementation support |
| Brand Studio Core | $50/month | Brands and marketing teams | Hosted generation with Stability and partner models |
| Stability AI API | Pay per credit | Developers | Hosted models without managing GPUs |
| Third-party hosts | Varies | Anyone without a GPU | Many apps and clouds offer Stable Diffusion |
Running Stable Diffusion locally costs nothing beyond your hardware and electricity. A modern GPU with at least 8 to 12 GB of video memory is recommended for SD 3.5.
Our experience using Stable Diffusion
Once set up, Stable Diffusion gives you more control than any closed tool: you can lock a composition with ControlNet, apply a custom LoRA for a consistent character or product, and generate unlimited images at no extra cost.
Getting there takes effort, and base model results need good prompts and settings. If you just want great images quickly, Midjourney or ChatGPT image creation (formerly DALL·E) are easier.
Who should use Stable Diffusion?
Stable Diffusion is best for developers, technical artists, game studios, e-commerce teams generating product images at volume, and anyone who wants privacy or full ownership of their pipeline. Beginners should start with a hosted option.
Stable Diffusion vs alternatives
Midjourney is easier and more artistic out of the box. Adobe Firefly is the commercially safe choice for brands. DALL·E, now GPT Image in ChatGPT, is the simplest to use. Canva is better for complete designs.
See all AI Image Generation tools.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Is Stable Diffusion free?
Yes. Stable Diffusion 3.5 is free under the Community License for individuals and organizations with under $1 million in annual revenue.
Can I use Stable Diffusion commercially?
Yes, under the Community License if your revenue is below $1 million. Larger businesses need an Enterprise License.
What do I need to run Stable Diffusion locally?
A computer with a modern GPU, ideally 8 to 12 GB of video memory or more, plus an interface such as ComfyUI.
Who owns Stable Diffusion images?
Stability AI says users own the outputs they create, subject to law and its Acceptable Use Policy.
Is Stable Diffusion better than Midjourney?
Stable Diffusion offers more control and no per-image fees, while Midjourney is easier and often more artistic without tuning.
