Leonardo AI : Full Review, Testing, and Presentation (2024)

What is Leonardo AI?

Leonardo AI is a state of the art generative AI platform launched in 2022.

Specializing in the creation of images and digital art, she uses a customized version of the Stable Diffusion model to generate high-quality visuals.

Accessible via its website, its on iOS with the App Store (iPhone, iPad) and on Google Play (Android), the platform allows users to quickly create artwork, illustrations, and visual assets from prompts.

Leonardo AI stands out for its versatility and ease of use. It offers over 30 different AI models, allowing creators of all levels to explore various artistic styles and techniques.

The fields of application are vast: character design, video game asset creation, graphic design, fashion, marketing, and even architecture. The platform also includes unique tools like 3D texture generation and an integrated editing canvas.

With average build times of 10 to 20 seconds per frame, Leonardo AI optimizes the creative process while offering a high level of personalization. It even allows advanced users to create their own custom AI models.

Features: A powerful generative AI platform

1. AI image creation: Power and flexibility

Leonardo AI excels in creating high quality images thanks to its technology based on Stable Diffusion. This flagship feature allows users to bring ideas to life in seconds.

• Simultaneous generation of 8 images
• Resolutions up to 1536x1536 pixels
• Average build time of 10-20 seconds per frame

With over 30 AI models available, creators have unparalleled flexibility to express their artistic vision.

Critical review : The quality and speed are there, but the large number of models can be confusing for beginners.

2. Integrated editing studio: AI Canvas

THEAI Canvas turns Leonardo AI into a real digital creative workshop. This integrated editing tool allows users to fine-tune their creations without leaving the platform.

It offers essential basic functions like cropping and resizing. Support for up to 5 layers allows for complex compositions, while compatibility with graphics tablets ensures precise control.

Critical review : Perfect for quick editing, but features remain limited compared to professional editing software.

3. Creating 3D textures: A unique asset for 3D artists

La 3D texture generation by Leonardo AI is a feature that sets it apart from its competitors. It offers 3D artists a powerful tool for creating realistic and detailed textures.

This function impresses with:

• Its support for common 3D formats (OBJ, FBX, GLTF)
• Its ability to generate textures in 4K resolution
• Its varied mapping options (diffuse, normal, roughness, metallic)

Critical review : A unique and powerful feature, but one that can be resource intensive for complex projects.

4. Customizable templates: Create your own style

The possibility of create custom templates is one of the major assets of Leonardo AI. This feature allows artists to develop their own style and refine the results according to their specific needs.

The process involves training with 5-20 reference images and offers compatibility with LoRa and Textual Inversion models. Users can create up to 10 custom templates per account.

Critical review : This feature offers unparalleled creative control, but can be complex for novices. More detailed guidance would be beneficial for beginners. However, it is possible to earn money thanks to the Leonardo Creator Program.

5. Animation: Bring your creations to life

Leonardo AI allows the generation and editing of animated sequences. This feature is especially useful for video content creators and animators looking to incorporate advanced visual effects into their projects.

Critical review : The quality of the animations is good, but the tool requires significant resources and a certain learning curve to be fully mastered.

6. Resolution improvement: Universal Upscaler

This feature allowsIncrease image resolution without losing quality, crucial for large prints or detailed uses.

• Maintaining quality during expansion
• Ideal for large format prints
• Useful for fine details in visual projects

Critical review : Upscaling is effective and maintains good image quality, but it can be slow for very high resolution files.

Pricing plans

Leonardo AI offers a range of scalable plans, allowing for a smooth transition as creative needs increase.

The Enterprise option provides additional flexibility for large-scale uses, ensuring that each user level finds a solution that fits their needs.

1. Free version: Beginners (0$/month)

This plan allows you to discover Leonardo AI without financial commitment. It offers 150 tokens per day and limited access to AI models, ideal for beginners who want to explore generative AI capabilities.

Perfect for: Curious people wanting to test the tool without initial investment.

2. Apprentice subscription: Occasional creators ($10/month)

The Apprentice subscription is designed for aspiring creators. It offers 7,500 tokens per month and access to all AI models, offering more creative flexibility.

Ideal for: Freelancers, digital art students, and growing content creators.

3. Pro subscription: Professionals ($35/month)

Intended for intensive users, the Pro plan provides 50,000 monthly tokens and access to all advanced features. It also includes build priority for more efficient workflows.

Perfect for: Professional artists, design studios, and creative marketing teams.

4. Enterprise subscription: Large companies (On request)

This bespoke solution offers unlimited tokens, dedicated support, and customizable features. It adapts to the specific needs of large structures.

Ideal for: Large corporations, advertising agencies, and high-volume production studios.

Alternatives to Leonardo AI

1. Midjourney: Visual artists and illustrators

Features

• Image generation via Discord with exceptional artistic quality
• V5.2 versions with a better understanding of prompts
• Integrated variation and upscaling tool

Pricing

• Basic: $10/month
• Standard: $30/month
• Pro: $60/month

Comparative opinion:Midjourney often surpasses Leonardo AI in terms of artistic quality, but its Discord interface may be less intuitive. Leonardo AI offers more direct control and built-in editing tools.

2. Stable Diffusion 3: Developers and Tech Enthusiasts

Features

• Enhanced version of Stable Diffusion with better image quality
• Highly customizable and open-source
• Can be run locally or via cloud services

Pricing

• Free (open-source)
• Hosted services like Replicate starting at $0.05/image

Comparative opinion:Stable Diffusion 3 offers unparalleled flexibility for technical users, but requires more skills. Leonardo AI offers a more accessible solution with integrated tools and a user-friendly interface.

3. Firefly (Adobe): Creative Professionals

Features

• Adobe Creative Cloud Suite integration
• Image generation and editing with precise control
• Advanced editing and manipulation tools

Pricing

• Included with Creative Cloud membership (starting at $54.99/month)
• Standalone versions coming soon

Comparative opinion:Firefly integrates seamlessly into the Adobe workflow, providing an advantage for professionals. Leonardo AI is more accessible and versatile for general use, but lacks Adobe's comprehensive ecosystem of professional creative tools.

FAQs

Can I use Leonardo AI for free?

Yes, Leonardo AI offers a free version offering 150 coins per day and limited access to models.

Is Leonardo AI suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. The intuitive interface and the numerous tutorials make it easy for beginners in generative AI to get started.

Can I use images created with Leonardo AI commercially?

Yes, users own the commercial rights to the images generated, subject to the specific conditions of use of the platform.

Final Verdict

Leonardo AI is positioned as a serious alternative to Midjourney, offering greater flexibility and powerful integrated tools. Its intuitive web interface and numerous options make it an attractive choice for visual content creators.

Advantages:

• Intuitive and easy to use web interface
• Over 30 AI models available
• Fast image generation (10-20 seconds)
• Built-in tools like AI Canvas for editing
• High quality 3D texture generation
• Creating custom models

Points to consider:

• Image quality sometimes slightly lower than Midjourney
• Advanced features that are potentially complex for beginners
• Limitation to 10 custom templates per account

Leonardo AI offers a robust and flexible solution for visual content creators, meeting a variety of creative needs despite some limitations.