Canva just launched its own AI image generator, so I tested it vs ChatGPT

Canva has recently introduced its own AI image generator, Canva Craft, allowing users to create various visual content for their projects. This tool can be used to generate images for social media, marketing materials, lifestyle photography, digital art, characters, and nature imagery. For those who already utilize AI tools like ChatGPT for visual creation, Canva Craft may provide a convenient solution to combine image generation and design in one platform.

While it may not be as powerful as ChatGPT, Canva claims that their in-house AI lab, Canva Research, is among the top labs for image generation worldwide.

To compare Canva Craft with ChatGPT's image generation capabilities, a reporter conducted five tests using prompts similar to those mentioned in Canva's announcement. The reporter utilized the free versions of both tools and evaluated the results based on realism, alignment with the prompt, and potential for use in design projects. Each image was presented with the Canva Craft result on the left and the ChatGPT result on the right, allowing for an easy comparison.

For the first prompt, a product ad image featuring a premium silver flip phone, both Canva Craft and ChatGPT delivered results with similar interpretations of the brief. The lighting and textures in both images appeared believable, although the Canva Craft result seemed slightly less realistic due to the angle of the objects and texture inconsistencies in the coffee.

In the second prompt, a desk flat lay design, both AI tools generated images that looked realistic enough for blog or social media posts. However, upon closer examination, the Canva Craft version appeared less realistic due to the angle of objects and textures, while the ChatGPT image showcased more believable lighting, creating an office-like atmosphere.

The third prompt, a lifestyle photograph of a woman laughing outside a café, provided an opportunity to assess the tools' ability to generate more engaging and detailed images. Canva Craft's version appeared basic, with smooth skin and inconsistencies in the woman's mouth, while ChatGPT's output showcased a more realistic woman with textured skin and a natural expression.

For the fourth prompt, an exhibition poster for "The Art of Disconnecting," both Canva Craft and ChatGPT excelled in rendering text. However, the posters differed in their level of detail and overall design. The Canva Craft result appeared more busy due to additional details on the poster, while the ChatGPT version showcased a cleaner, more focused design. Ultimately, the reporter chose ChatGPT as the winner for this prompt, as their image appeared more realistic and free of inconsistencies.

In conclusion, Canva Craft and ChatGPT each have their strengths when it comes to image generation. Canva Craft's tool may be more practical for those already using Canva for design tasks, but ChatGPT's results tend to be more realistic and detailed. Ultimately, the choice between the two tools depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.