Expert Reveals Top 3 AI Image Generators Used Daily

Prompt: An iPhone open to the interface of Sora with a futuristic pink and purple tech background, that is realistic, as if taken in a studio. Credit: Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET via ChatGPT

When ChatGPT burst onto the scene, AI text-to-image generators quickly followed, capturing widespread fascination. These tools are undeniably remarkable, capable of transforming a simple text prompt into a realistic image, much like the one featured at the beginning of this article.

However, with numerous options available, it's clear that some image generators are better suited for specific tasks than others.

Also see: Adobe's Photoshop AI editing magic is now free on Android

As someone who has been testing and ranking these tools for years, publishing the initial version of my best AI image generator list back in January 2023, I've often pondered which generators excel in particular use cases. Fortunately, through trial and error, and as the models have grown more sophisticated, I've identified some specific tools and their applications that I now use daily.

Here are the models I find most effective and the use cases that pair well with them.

1. ChatGPT Your Versatile Image Creation Companion

ChatGPT might seem like an obvious choice, but it tops my list for compelling reasons. Following April's update to the GPT-4o image generation model, ChatGPT's image generation capabilities became truly formidable. It can now tackle challenging prompts, produce realistic images, and, most impressively, render accurate text within images. Other significant features include generating images on transparent backgrounds, using specific colors from HEX codes, and even creating videos from images.

My personal favorite feature is image referencing, which allows you to generate a new version of an existing image. While this might initially seem limited to creating cartoon versions of selfies, its more practical applications emerge when you think creatively. For instance, I've used it as a personalized version of Pinterest.

I had an awkwardly shaped wall in my apartment and was unsure how to decorate it without adding yet another picture frame. I uploaded an image of the wall to ChatGPT and asked for a decorated mockup. I was so pleased with the result that I immediately ordered the necessary items from Amazon to bring the vision to life. Similar interior design services on platforms like Etsy can be quite expensive and aren't instantaneous.

Credit: Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET via ChatGPT

I've seen people on TikTok get incredibly creative with this feature. For example, one user uploaded photos of her entire wardrobe and asked ChatGPT to assemble outfits based on her style description and inspiration. Another trend involves uploading a baby's sonogram photo and prompting ChatGPT to create a more realistic depiction. While I may not frequently use abstract generated images in my personal life, I genuinely use ChatGPT for inspiration as much as I use Pinterest – essentially, whenever I need fresh ideas.

Also consider: Is ChatGPT Plus worth the $20 subscription? A comparison with Free and Pro plans

Free users have limited daily access to image generation features, which resets each day. ChatGPT Plus subscribers, however, enjoy higher access limits. If you're a frequent ChatGPT user, the subscription is likely worthwhile as it provides access to the latest features, including Sora, Deep Research, the most advanced reasoning models, and more.

2. Genmoji Personalized Emojis for Daily Communication

Apple Intelligence might not be the most advanced AI suite available, but the features it offers are generally very helpful for the everyday iPhone user. Genmoji perfectly encapsulates this by allowing users to create new emojis simply by typing a description. The best part is that it maintains the visual style of existing emojis, ensuring a consistent user experience.

Credit: Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET via Genmoji

My ZDNET colleague and friend, Jada Jones, and I text daily, and we've created so many Genmojis that they've become a staple in our conversations. For me, the mark of a good AI feature is the desire to use it every day, and Genmoji certainly achieves that. The screenshot above shows some of our favorite creations.

Also check out: Apple WWDC 2025: What to anticipate for iOS, Apple Intelligence, VisionOS, and more

3. Canva Integrated AI for Visual Projects

If I'm going to generate an AI image, it's usually while working on a visual project—be it an invitation, flyer, banner, or social media post. These types of projects often benefit from unique or creative imagery. Consequently, Canva's image generator, part of its Magic Studio suite, proves to be a genuinely helpful application of an image generator.

Related: The best AI image generators of 2025: Comparing Gemini, ChatGPT, Midjourney, and others

Beyond its convenient integration, the model itself is quite capable. It generates realistic images, accepts reference images, and allows for the selection of different styles and sizes. The suite of AI tools also extends to AI image editing, featuring background removal, element selection with Magic Grab, background generation, Magic Eraser, and Magic Expand. The image in the section above utilizes some of these AI tools, such as Magic Grab and background removal.

Higher access to the full suite of AI features requires a Canva Pro subscription, which costs $15 per month per person. However, users can also start with a free trial. The subscription also grants access to premium templates, more stock photos, graphics, 1 TB of cloud storage, online customer support, and more.

Get the top tech stories in your inbox daily with our Tech Today newsletter.