How to choose image models: matched trials for Midjourney, GPT Image, and Nano Banana
Check current entries and input modes, then compare composition, text, reference details, and actual cost with the same brief instead of fixed model rankings.
Start with the intended asset, available material, and acceptance criteria. This guide compares ways to try Midjourney Image, GPT Image 2, and Nano Banana 2 without assigning style, text accuracy, reference fidelity, or speed permanently to one model.
Check the current product entries
| Current name | Entry |
|---|---|
| Midjourney Image | Midjourney Image |
| GPT Image 2 | GPT Image 2 |
| Nano Banana 2 | Nano Banana 2 |
Names follow the on-site product configuration while legacy URLs remain. The current Midjourney catalog name does not establish V8.1 or a particular upstream version. Check modes, choices, availability, and cost before submitting.
Filter by input requirements
| Material | Check first | Inspect |
|---|---|---|
| A text brief | Text-to-image mode and required settings | Subject, setting, and composition |
| Reference images | A matching image mode and image requirements | Preserved shapes, colors, and specified features |
| An image to edit | Whether the required edit mode exists | Editing scope and drift elsewhere |
| Exact copy or packaging text | How the form and prompt express requirements | Every character, punctuation, and readability |
A model family name does not prove arbitrary local editing, a fixed resolution, output count, or upload limits.
Compare the same brief
- Fix purpose, subject, composition, exact copy, and details to preserve.
- Select two entries supporting necessary inputs, align settings where possible, and record unmatched conditions.
- Score results with the same checklist. Record failures, actual cost, waiting time, and manual editing before choosing the next attempt.
Acceptance checklist
| Item | Method |
|---|---|
| Composition and style | Agreement with the brief, hierarchy, and empty space |
| Subject details | Count, shape, edges, hands, and brand features |
| Text | Character-by-character language, spelling, punctuation, and readability |
| Reference consistency | Compare required features directly with the input |
| Effort | Actual cost, retries, retouching, and layout work |
A reusable test brief
Create a square promotional image for a ceramic cup: pale background, soft window light, subject on the right, headline space on the left, no added text or logo. Keep the rim round and the handle intact; identify details that may need human inspection.
Size and aspect-ratio choices follow the current form. Written constraints and inspection requests do not guarantee image compliance. One successful trial is not a lasting ranking.
From exploration to delivery
Try a few directions for the same theme, select candidates with the checklist, and revise one factor. Inspect generated copy directly and use separate layout tools where necessary. Chat can help prepare briefs; video and Suno music require their own generation and checks.
Common mistakes
- Inferring current settings from a historical version tutorial: read the selected mode form.
- Assuming a model guarantees accurate Chinese text or references: check your own material.
- Changing prompts, images, and settings together: record differences to avoid false attribution.
- Treating a suggested number of concepts or a time budget as a service promise: plan from actual choices and results.
