DALL-E 3 vs Midjourney: The Complete Comparison
Which image generation tool is right for you? A detailed side-by-side analysis of features, pricing, and performance.
DALL-E 3 wins for most users due to its free tier and excellent prompt understanding. Choose DALL-E 3 if you need ChatGPT users. Choose Midjourney for Artists.
- Price: DALL-E 3 starts at Free, Midjourney at $10/mo
- Free tier: Only DALL-E 3 has free tier
- Best for: DALL-E 3 → ChatGPT users | Midjourney → Artists
- Features: 24+ features across 7 categories
- Our pick: DALL-E 3 for budget-conscious users
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | DALL-E 3 | Midjourney |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | OpenAI | Midjourney Inc |
| Starting Price | Free | $10/mo |
| Free Tier | Yes | No |
| API Access | Yes | No |
| Web App | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Yes | No |
| Best For | ChatGPT users | Artists |
What Are We Comparing?
DALL-E 3
OpenAI's image generator integrated into ChatGPT. Known for excellent prompt adherence and iterative refinement.
DALL-E 3 is OpenAI's latest image generation model, fully integrated into ChatGPT. It excels at understanding complex prompts and allows natural language refinement of generated images. Included with ChatGPT Plus subscription.
Midjourney
Leading AI image and video generator known for stunning artistic quality and photorealistic outputs. Discord-based with web interface, now featuring video generation capabilities.
Midjourney is widely considered the gold standard for AI image generation, producing cinematic, highly detailed images. It operates primarily through Discord but now offers a web interface. Known for consistent quality across diverse styles.
DALL-E 3 vs Midjourney Pricing
Here's how the pricing compares between both tools:
DALL-E 3
Free Tier AvailableMidjourney
No Free TierFeatures Comparison
DALL-E 3 Features
- ✓ Web App
- ✓ Api Access
- ✓ Inpainting
- ✓ Mobile App
- ✓ Outpainting
- ✓ Text To Image
Midjourney Features
- ✓ Web App
- ✓ Upscaling
- ✓ Inpainting
- ✓ File Upload
- ✓ Outpainting
- ✓ Text To Image
- ✓ Image To Image
- ✓ Style Transfer
- ✓ Batch Generation
Pros and Cons
DALL-E 3
Pros
- Excellent prompt understanding
- Conversational refinement
- Integrated with ChatGPT
- Good text rendering
- Commercial rights included
Cons
- Less artistic than Midjourney
- Slower generation
- More restrictive content policy
- Can look overly polished
Midjourney
Pros
- Best-in-class image quality
- Stunning artistic styles
- Photorealistic capabilities
- Active community
- Consistent outputs
Cons
- No free tier
- Discord-based (learning curve)
- No API access
- Limited control over fine details
Who Should Use Each Tool?
Choose DALL-E 3 if you need:
- ChatGPT users
- Iterative design
- Text in images
- Beginners
Choose Midjourney if you need:
- Artists
- Designers
- Marketing visuals
- Concept art
Final Verdict: DALL-E 3 vs Midjourney
🏆 Winner: DALL-E 3
After comparing all aspects, DALL-E 3 comes out slightly ahead for most users. The free tier makes it easy to get started without commitment. Key strength: Excellent prompt understanding.
Bottom line: Use DALL-E 3 for ChatGPT users. Use Midjourney for Artists. Both are excellent image generation tools in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between DALL-E 3 and Midjourney?
DALL-E 3 is openai's image generator integrated into chatgpt. known for excellent prompt adherence and iterative refinement. Midjourney is leading ai image and video generator known for stunning artistic quality and photorealistic outputs. discord-based with web interface, now featuring video generation capabilities. The main differences are in pricing (Free vs $10/mo), target users, and specific features offered.
Which is better: DALL-E 3 or Midjourney?
DALL-E 3 is generally better for most users due to its free tier and excellent prompt understanding. DALL-E 3 is best for ChatGPT users, while Midjourney shines at Artists.
Is DALL-E 3 free to use?
Yes, DALL-E 3 offers a free tier with limited features. You can upgrade to paid plans starting at Free for more capabilities.
Is Midjourney free to use?
No, Midjourney doesn't have a free tier. Pricing starts at $10/mo.
Can I switch from DALL-E 3 to Midjourney?
Yes, you can switch between these tools at any time. Both are standalone services. Consider your specific needs for ChatGPT users vs Artists when deciding.