DALL-E 2: An In-Depth AI Image Generator Review

Model Overview: DALL-E 2

DALL-E 2, also developed by OpenAI, was a significant step in the development of AI image generation and was one of the first models to gain mainstream attention. While older than DALL-E 3, it’s still interesting to analyze how it measures up against the capabilities of current models. It’s known for its ability to generate diverse images and is still being used today in some workflows.

Text-to-Image Performance

Simple Prompt: “A red apple on a wooden table.”

Overall Analysis:

Given that DALL-E 2 is an older model, the results are understandable. The image, while accurately representing the prompt of a red apple on a wooden table, lacks the clarity and detail found in newer models. It has some distortion such as the chromatic aberration, which can occur in older cameras adding a realistic charm. The textures on the apple and the table are surprisingly good and very realistic.

Human Evaluation Score: 3.3 / 5

Complex Prompt: “A futuristic cityscape with flying cars at sunset, in the style of a cyberpunk comic book.”

Overall Analysis:

The DALL-E 2 model produced a result that missed almost all of the complex requirements we presented to it. There is no cityscape, no flying cars, no cyberpunk vibe, and the style is not even remotely similar to a comic book. This extremely poor generation highlights the model’s limitations when faced with complex prompts that require many specific details.

Human Evaluation Score: 1 / 5

Edge Case Prompt: “A square circle.”

Overall Analysis:

When trying to generate a square circle, DALL-E 2 failed to represent the impossible shape effectively. The image contains a square, but there is no circle present, showcasing the limitations of this model when trying to process paradoxical or contradictory requests.

Human Evaluation Score: 1 / 5

Complex Prompts/Edge Cases (Combined)

Overall Analysis:

From these tests, it is clear that DALL-E 2 struggles when presented with complex prompts and edge cases. The model’s limitations are particularly evident when trying to process the detailed and multi-faceted nature of these prompts. The model failed to adhere to any of the specific requests and, in doing so, shows that its capabilities are dated.

Human Evaluation Score (Complex/Edge Cases): 1 / 5

Overall Impression

Overall, DALL-E 2 is a dated model that had some potential when it was first released, but it struggles to compete with more recent AI image generation technologies. Its limitations are evident when it comes to complex prompts, style emulation, and abstract concept interpretation. While the model may be useful for simpler tasks and straightforward requests, it is clear that it is not ideal for creative use cases that require detail and accuracy.