Model Comparison

GPT-4o Image Generation vs Stable Diffusion XL

GPT-4o Image Generation: HeavyStable Diffusion XL: Standard

Side-by-side environmental impact comparison. GPT-4o Image Generation uses 55% more energy per query.

GPT-4o Image Generation uses 55% more energy than Stable Diffusion XL
4.5 Wh vs 2.9 Wh per query · 2.0 g vs 1.2 g CO · 16 mL vs 5 mL water
GPT-4o Image Generation
OpenAI
Energy per query4.5 Wh
CO per query2.0 g
Water per query16 mL
VS
Stable Diffusion XL
Stability AI
Energy per query2.9 Wh
CO per query1.2 g
Water per query5 mL

GPT-4o Image Generation

ProviderOpenAI
CategoryImage Generation
Inference LocationAzure US East / Sweden
Confidenceestimated
Efficiency TierHeavy

Stable Diffusion XL

ProviderStability AI
CategoryImage Generation
Inference LocationSelf-hosted (varies)
Confidencepeer-reviewed
Efficiency TierStandard

Frequently Asked Questions

Which uses more energy, GPT-4o Image Generation or Stable Diffusion XL?

GPT-4o Image Generation uses 55% more energy per query than Stable Diffusion XL. GPT-4o Image Generation uses 4.5 Wh per query, while Stable Diffusion XL uses 2.9 Wh.

What is the carbon footprint difference between GPT-4o Image Generation and Stable Diffusion XL?

GPT-4o Image Generation uses 67% more CO₂ per query than Stable Diffusion XL. GPT-4o Image Generation emits 2.0 g of CO₂ per query compared to Stable Diffusion XL's 1.2 g.

Which is more environmentally friendly, GPT-4o Image Generation or Stable Diffusion XL?

Stable Diffusion XL is the more environmentally friendly option, using 2.9 Wh per query compared to GPT-4o Image Generation's 4.5 Wh. That makes GPT-4o Image Generation roughly 1.6x more energy-intensive.

Calculate your footprint with these models

See how your daily usage of GPT-4o Image Generation and Stable Diffusion XL adds up over time. Our calculator estimates energy, carbon, and water impact.

Calculate My Compute
View GPT-4o Image Generation detailsView Stable Diffusion XL details