GPT Image 2.5 Flare vs GPT Image 2
Which one to choose
Pick GPT Image 2.5 Flare for new work: OpenAI presents it as the successor, with higher image quality and about half the latency of gpt-image-2. Pick gpt-image-2 only when an existing pipeline is tuned to it and you have no reason to re-test, or when your workflow relies on its documented inpainting. For final renders needing tight control across edits, OpenAI points to Sunburst instead.
Pricing comparison
| GPT Image 2.5 Flare | GPT Image 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Model maker | OpenAI | OpenAI |
| Delivery availability | Available | Available |
| Context window | - | - |
| Max output | - | - |
| Official price | Input$5.00per 1M tokensOutput$30.00per 1M tokens | Input$5.00per 1M tokensOutput$30.00per 1M tokens |
| TokenLab price | Input$3.50per 1M tokensOutput$21.00per 1M tokens | Input$3.50per 1M tokensOutput$21.00per 1M tokens |
| Model performance |
|
|
| Capabilities | Text to ImageImage Edit | Text to ImageImage Edit |
Choose GPT Image 2.5 Flare when
- You are starting a new image feature and want OpenAI's current default model.
- You iterate in short loops on drafts and quick edits, where waiting time shapes the workflow.
- You edit across several turns and need reference photos to stay recognizable.
Choose GPT Image 2 when
- Your pipeline is already tuned to gpt-image-2 outputs and you do not want visual differences.
- You rely on its documented inpainting and have not re-tested the newer model for that.
- You compare results between versions and need the older one as the baseline.
How they differ
| Aspect | GPT Image 2.5 Flare | GPT Image 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | The newer model, rated by OpenAI as higher quality than gpt-image-2. | The earlier model, now described by OpenAI as the established option. |
| Latency | About half the latency of gpt-image-2, per OpenAI. | Slower than its successor. |
| Look of results | OpenAI cites more natural lighting and richer textures. | Produces the earlier house look that existing prompts were tuned against. |
| Editing across turns | Follows editing instructions over several turns and keeps reference subjects better, according to OpenAI. | Edits from reference images and supports inpainting with a mask. |
| Place in the line | The fast default of the 2.5 pair; Sunburst is the premium sibling. | Superseded by both 2.5 models, so it is mainly kept for existing work. |
Summary
- GPT Image 2.5 Flare: Input $3.50 / Output $21.00 per 1M tokens; GPT Image 2: Input $3.50 / Output $21.00 per 1M tokens. Rates depend on the billing unit, specification, and usage. Compare matching conditions in the model's detailed pricing; a single rate does not determine the total cost.
FAQ
Is GPT Image 2.5 Flare better than gpt-image-2?
OpenAI says yes on quality and latency: higher image quality at 50 percent lower latency. Treat that as the maker's claim and compare a few of your own prompts, since taste in images varies by subject.
Will my gpt-image-2 prompts work on Flare?
Mostly. Both generate from text and edit from reference images, and the request style is the same family. Outputs will look somewhat different, so re-check any prompt that was tuned to a specific look.
When would I still use gpt-image-2?
When an existing workflow is validated against it, or when you need its documented inpainting and have not confirmed the same on Flare. Otherwise the successor is the sensible default.
What is Sunburst and how does it relate?
Sunburst is the other model in OpenAI's 2.5 pair, aimed at premium work needing tighter control across edits. Flare suits drafts and daily use; some teams iterate on Flare and finish on Sunburst.
Which is cheaper, GPT Image 2.5 Flare or GPT Image 2?
GPT Image 2.5 Flare: Input $3.50 / Output $21.00 per 1M tokens; GPT Image 2: Input $3.50 / Output $21.00 per 1M tokens. Rates depend on the billing unit, specification, and usage. Compare matching conditions in the model's detailed pricing; a single rate does not determine the total cost.
What are the key differences between GPT Image 2.5 Flare and GPT Image 2?
Both models share similar capabilities.
Sources
Reviewed Oct 2, 2026