Low-resolution images are a constant challenge for photographers and designers. Topaz Gigapixel AI addresses this problem. It uses deep learning to enlarge photos up to six times. This process does not sacrifice quality or introduce typical blurring artifacts. This powerful AI image upscaler was trained on millions of images, allowing it to intelligently reconstruct missing detail rather than simply stretching pixels.
The software is an industry-leading tool for professional-grade photo enhancement. Utilizing advanced generative models, it can recover fine textures, sharpen edges, and even restore faces in old or low-quality source material, making it an essential utility for creating large prints or high-resolution assets.
In This Article
Topaz Gigapixel AI Optimal Settings
Fine-Tuning Generative Upscaling with the Creativity Slider
- Load your image into Topaz Gigapixel AI.
- In the right-hand panel, select one of the Generative Models (e.g., Redefine).
- Locate the Creativity Slider within the model settings.
- For subtle detail enhancement, keep the slider low (1-3).
- For significant detail reconstruction or to guide the AI to fill in missing areas, push the slider higher (4-7).
- Use the split-screen preview to compare the generative output against the original image in real-time.
Why: The Creativity Slider dictates how much the generative AI model is allowed to invent new detail versus strictly adhering to the original input. Power users adjust this setting to balance photorealistic accuracy with the need for detail recovery in heavily damaged or low-resolution source images.
Accessing Gigapixel AI as a Plugin in Adobe Lightroom Classic
- In Adobe Lightroom Classic, select the image you wish to upscale.
- Right-click the image thumbnail in the Library or Develop module.
- Navigate to the Edit In submenu.
- Select Topaz Gigapixel AI from the list of external editors.
- Choose your desired file format and color space for the rendered file.
- Click Edit to send the image to the Topaz Gigapixel AI application for processing.
Why: Using the plugin workflow ensures that the upscaled image is automatically re-imported into your Lightroom catalog as a new, high-resolution file, maintaining a non-destructive editing process and keeping your library organized.
Download Topaz Gigapixel AI
Size – 443.78 MB
Windows
Download Topaz Gigapixel AI for Windows – ARM
Download Topaz Gigapixel AI for Windows
Mac
Changelog Highlights in Latest Version
- Fixed “New Topaz Gigapixel” button workflow being in a loop.
- Fixed Update button continuously being active.
- Fixed In-app Updater showing 9.9.9.
- Fixed Pasting images straight into the app not working.
- Fixed not being able to free seats.
For complete changelog, visit the official release notes.
Required Specs
Minimum
- OS: Windows 10 or 11; macOS 11.0 Big Sur and higher
- Processor: Intel or AMD with AVX instructions (post-2013) or Apple M-series
- RAM: 16 GB (Intel/AMD) or 8 GB (Apple M1/M2)
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 980 Ti (6 GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon 570 (6 GB VRAM) or Apple M1/M2 (8 GB system RAM)
Recommended
- RAM: 24 GB or more (for upscales > 500 megapixels)
Tech Specs
| Software Name | Topaz Gigapixel AI |
|---|---|
| Version | 8.4.4 |
| License | Trial |
| File Size | 443.78 MB |
| OS Support | Windows 10, 11; macOS 11.0 Big Sur and higher |
| Language | English (multi-language support is typical for Topaz Labs products, but not explicitly listed for this version) |
| Developer | Topaz Labs |
| Homepage | https://www.topazlabs.com/topaz-gigapixel |
| Changelogurl | https://www.topazlabs.com/community/c/releases/gigapixel-releases/ |
| Last Updated | September 19, 2025 |
What We Like & What Could Be Better
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses generative AI models to reconstruct realistic detail during upscaling. | Requires significant GPU VRAM and system RAM for optimal performance. |
| Supports upscaling images up to 6x (and up to 16x with non-AI methods). | The full version requires a paid license after the trial period. |
| Includes specialized models for face recovery and different image types (e.g., CG, low-res). | New AI models and major features are being introduced in the newer Studio versions. |
| Offers optional cloud rendering to offload processing from local hardware. | |
| Functions as both a standalone application and a plugin for Adobe products. |
What Sets It Apart
- Generative AI Upscaling Models: The software includes advanced generative models. These include Redefine and Recover. They utilize the latest AI technology to fill in missing details. This creates photorealistic results when enlarging images to very high resolutions.
- Up to 6x Resolution Increase: Users can enlarge images by up to 600% while maintaining or even improving sharpness and clarity, making small source photos suitable for large-format printing or high-resolution displays.
- Gen 2 Face Recovery: An updated Face Recovery model (Gen 2) specifically targets human faces in photos, improving performance on profiles and enhancing features like teeth and eyeglasses for a more natural, cleaner result.
- Batch Processing and Cloud Rendering: Process entire folders of images simultaneously with batch processing capabilities; plus, users can offload computationally intensive upscaling tasks to Topaz Labs’ cloud rendering service for faster results.
- Nine Specialized AI Models: Explore nine different AI models optimized for various image types, including low-resolution photos, digital art, compressed web images, and fine art, ensuring the best possible detail recovery for any source.
Installation Steps
Installation Steps
- Step 1: Click the download button above to get the installer for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
- Step 2: Locate the downloaded file (e.g.,.exe or.dmg) and double-click to run the installer.
- Step 3: Follow the on-screen installation wizard, accepting the license agreement and choosing the installation location.
- Step 4: Launch the application; you will be prompted to log in to start your free trial or activate your full license.
Compatibility: Requires a stable, high-speed internet connection for initial download, installation, activation, and updates.
Common Issues & Fixes
- Issue: Installation fails or app crashes → Solution: Ensure your graphics card drivers are fully updated, as the AI models rely heavily on GPU acceleration.
- Issue: Slow processing time → Solution: Check your system’s RAM and VRAM; large upscales may require 24 GB of system memory or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Topaz Gigapixel AI a free application?
No, Topaz Gigapixel AI is a paid application, but a free trial is available for users to test its capabilities before purchasing a license.
Does Topaz Gigapixel AI support RAW files?
Yes, the application supports various file formats, including JPG, PNG, TIFF, and RAW formats, allowing photographers to work directly with their camera files.
Can I use Topaz Gigapixel AI as a plugin?
Yes. The application can be used as a standalone program or integrated as a plugin for Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom Classic, offering flexibility in your editing workflow.
Other Options
| Feature | Topaz Gigapixel AI | Upscayl | Adobe Super Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | 💰 Paid (Trial Available) | ✅ Free | 💰 Paid (Requires Adobe Subscription) |
| Platform | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS (Integrated into Lightroom/Camera Raw) |
| Open Source | ❌ false | ✅ true | ❌ false |
| Max Upscale Factor | 6x (AI) / 16x (Non-AI) | 16x | 2x (Linear) |
| Generative AI Models | Yes (Redefine, Recover) | No (Uses Real-ESRGAN/other open-source models) | No (Uses a simpler AI algorithm) |
| Key Strength | Industry-leading detail reconstruction and face recovery. | Completely free, open-source, and cross-platform support. | Seamless integration into the existing Adobe ecosystem. |
| Weakness vs Main | N/A (this is the main software) | Fewer advanced controls and less sophisticated detail recovery. | Limited to 2x upscaling and offers no user controls or model selection. |
| Our Pick | Best overall | Best for budget-conscious users and Linux enthusiasts. | Best for users already heavily invested in the Adobe Creative Cloud. |
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