Following extensive testing of both the HiDream dev and HiDream full workflows available via the ComfyUI examples (link here), I wanted to share my initial findings, particularly in comparison to the well-established Flux model.
To ensure a fair comparison, I generated multiple images using HiDream with the exact same prompts that previously yielded some of my best results with Flux. This included tests where Flux was augmented with specific LoRA models, as well as generations using Flux Pro.
Based on this direct comparison, my conclusion is clear: HiDream is significantly superior across the board. In fact, its performance is so impressive that I will likely be removing Flux from my ComfyUI setup entirely, as HiDream effectively renders it redundant for my needs. I found that HiDream consistently generated styles accurately and adhered to prompts more effectively than Flux – even when Flux was enhanced with LoRAs.
However, the testing did reveal a couple of minor caveats. Firstly, I noticed an intermittent "PJ" watermark appearing on a small number of HiDream generations. While this is easily removed in post-processing, it's worth noting. Secondly, while generally powerful, HiDream still struggles with certain highly specific or obscure concepts. For instance, it had difficulty accurately depicting "wacky inflatable arm waving tube men" and some types of "obscure glass." This indicates that there's still a valuable role for targeted LoRA training to handle niche subjects, even with a base model as capable as HiDream.
Despite these minor points, HiDream demonstrates a strong understanding of many fundamental concepts. It handles prompts requesting symmetry, depth of field, various traditional art styles, and specific positional instructions (e.g., placing elements "to the right" or "to the left") with impressive accuracy.
A prime example of its prompt comprehension is the banner image created for this article. The prompt was: "an illustration of two robots, one lying on the floor with circuitry and broken parts of the robot around it, the robot on the floor has the word 'FLUX' written on it. To the right is another robot holding a gun pointed at the broken robot on the floor, the standing robot on the right with the gun has the word 'HiDream' written on it." HiDream executed this complex scene perfectly, capturing the intended symbolism.
Beyond image quality, there are other compelling reasons to favour HiDream. It is released under the permissive MIT open-source license, offering great freedom for users. In contrast, Flux's licensing appears more restrictive, particularly concerning commercial use. Furthermore, for those interested, HiDream provides uncensored image generation capabilities.
To visually demonstrate the difference, below are some direct comparisons. In each pair, the Flux generation (often using relevant LoRAs) is shown first, followed by the HiDream full (base model only) generation using the identical prompt:
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Prompt: "painted world, teeth, stylized surreal depiction of an ethereal ghostly cybergore figure with a large scythe, wearing a cloak without a face, floating through an enchanted forest permeated by a thick miasma visible as dense and vibrant fog with a menacing neon glow pulsing from within. The monster trees are interconnected by thorny vines with eyes and fangs. The color scheme is dominated by an eerie red-pink light and particles, accentuating the horror-themed grimdark fantasy nightmare."
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Prompt: "Vintage Sci-fi Movie scene of men wearing space suits and carrying scifi guns that look like plastic toys running through a field of red flowers with the sky having a purple hue, in the background is a large, oversized robot."
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Prompt: "In this paper quilling, layered paper artwork, a dog wears sunglasses while lounging on a beach chair in a tropical paradise, with palm trees swaying and bright summer colors creating a playful vacation atmosphere."
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The main benefit for me comes from the fact that the base model is so capable. This means I no longer need to keep a large stockpile of LoRA models on my computer taking up space and can focus more on the creation of images rather than having to waste time creating tools to do what I want. It does not completely remove the need for LoRA models, but it does heavily reduce the amount that will be needed.