Real-ESRGAN alternatives

+ Completely free, runs offline on almost any GPU and batch-processes folders.
− Only deterministic upscaling, so it cannot add believable detail like Magnific or Gigapixel.

+ One subscription gives access to Flux, Veo, Kling, Wan and others plus a strong enhancer, so you rarely need another tool.
− It is an aggregator, so model availability and pricing shift often and credits drain quickly on video.

+ Many useful single-purpose tools (relight, uncrop, reimagine) under one roof with an API.
− Since the move from Stability AI to Jasper, several tools have been pared back and the model updates have slowed.

+ Access to Flux, Imagen, Kling, Veo and Magnific upscaling bundled with a stock library in one subscription.
− The interface is cluttered with upsells and credit costs differ per model.

+ Invents convincing fine detail (skin, fabric, foliage) that ordinary upscalers cannot.
− Expensive, and the creativity slider can alter faces or add details that were not there.

+ Multiple purpose-built models (Recover, Redefine) handle faces, low-res scans and art differently.
− Generative models need a beefy GPU or cloud credits, and results can over-smooth textures.

+ Best-in-class noise reduction and sharpening for real photographs without hallucinating detail.
− Expensive upfront cost plus paid annual upgrades, and it is slow on older machines.