OpenAI released GPT Image 2.5 on September 8, 2026 as two API models: Flare, the faster default, and Sunburst, which OpenAI calls its most capable model for image generation and editing. OpenAI recommends Sunburst where editing precision matters most and warns that it takes longer to generate. It says the 2.5 models keep subjects from reference photos more recognisable, change only what you ask for in an edit and stay consistent across several rounds of edits. On LMArena's text-to-image leaderboard dated September 24, 2026, Sunburst ranked first on a preliminary rating, ahead of Nano Banana Pro.
Nano Banana Pro (Gemini 3 Pro Image) is Google's image model built on Gemini 3. Google highlights legible text for posters and diagrams, translation of text inside images, infographics that draw on Gemini's real-world knowledge, output at 1K, 2K or 4K, and consistency for up to five characters and fourteen objects in one workflow. Leaderboard votes reflect general taste across many prompts. For your own briefs, especially text-heavy layouts or localised versions, generate the same prompt with both in Omny.
Which should you choose?
Nano Banana Pro
Nano Banana Pro · ~20s per image
Pick it if
you need 4K output, translated text inside images or infographics grounded in real-world knowledge.
GPT Image 2.5 Sunburst
GPT Image 2.5 Sunburst · ~60s per image
Pick it if
you need precise edits that leave the rest of the image untouched across several rounds.
GPT Image 2.5 Sunburst is the pick for precise, multi-round edits, and it currently tops LMArena's text-to-image ranking. Nano Banana Pro is built around legible text, in-image translation and infographics, with up to 4K output. Test both on your own briefs.
Questions
What is GPT Image 2.5 Sunburst?
It is OpenAI's most capable image generation and editing model, released on September 8, 2026 alongside the faster GPT Image 2.5 Flare. OpenAI recommends Sunburst for work like campaign creative and product imagery, where tighter control across edits is worth the longer generation time.
Which is better for text in images?
Both vendors emphasise it. Google highlights Nano Banana Pro's legible text and in-image translation, and OpenAI says Images 2.5 handles more complex layouts, including transparent backgrounds. Try your exact copy in both.
Which ranks higher on LMArena?
On LMArena's text-to-image leaderboard dated September 24, 2026, GPT Image 2.5 Sunburst ranked first on a preliminary rating, with Nano Banana Pro further down. Rankings change as votes come in.