
Strengths
- Professional-level image editing functions (canvas editing, partial redrawing)
- Supports all mainstream models such as SD 1.5, SDXL, ControlNet, etc.
- Workflow system (similar to ComfyUI but more intuitive)
- Completely free and open source, runs locally
- Provide cloud version (InvokeAI Cloud)
Best for
- Professional AI image creation and post-processing
- Fine local redrawing and image restoration
- Use ControlNet to precisely control your build
- Batch image generation
- Commercial AI imaging workflow
Installation and basic use
InvokeAI provides a complete installer for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Install InvokeAI
It is recommended to use the official installer: 1. Visit invoke.ai/downloads 2. Download the installation package for the corresponding system 3. Run the installer and select the installation path 4. The installer automatically configures the Python environment 5. Download the basic model when starting for the first time 6. Visit http://localhost:9090 with the browser
After the installation is complete, open the modern web interface,
On the left is the toolbar and in the middle is the canvas.
On the right is the parameter setting panel.
InvokeAI's installer is the simplest way to avoid the hassle of manually configuring a Python environment.
Using Unified Canvas
The core function of InvokeAI is the unified canvas: 1. Place a reference image on the canvas 2. Use the brush tool to paint the area that needs to be modified. 3. Enter a Prompt describing the modified content 4. Click Generate, and only the smeared area will be regenerated. Advanced usage: - Expand the canvas (Outpainting): Expand the picture outwards - Seamlessly stitch multiple pictures together - Finely repair picture defects
Unified canvas makes image editing intuitive,
Can be operated like Photoshop,
But powered by AI, the effect is smarter.
The unified canvas is InvokeAI's biggest advantage over other tools and is suitable for professional users who require fine editing.
Compared with similar tools
| Tool | Strength | Best for | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| InvokeAI This tool | Professional image editing functions, unified canvas, and perfect workflow | Professional AI image creator who needs fine editing control | Totally free (local) / paid cloud version |
| ComfyUI | Workflow is more flexible, node-based programming | Requires extremely flexible workflows | completely free |
| Stable Diffusion WebUI | The richest plug-in ecology | Requires a large number of plug-ins to extend functionality | completely free |
| Fooocus | Easiest to use | Beginner, quickly generate | completely free |
Sources & references:
- InvokeAI official website (2025-03)
- InvokeAI GitHub (2025-03)