DeOldify

DeOldify colorizes and restores old photos and videos using open-source deep learning, free in the browser.

Overview

DeOldify popularized modern AI photo colorization. Its GAN-based models bring color to black-and-white photos and even video footage, and the project is open source, so anyone can run it locally. The web experience makes it easy: upload an image, choose stability and rendering options, and download the colorized result. Hobbyists, historians, and YouTubers restoring archival footage all use it.

The project pioneered the NoGAN training approach that stabilizes colorization output, and its community keeps producing faster variants and integrations. For video, the three models trade speed against flicker stability, letting users choose based on footage length and quality needs.

Key Features

• AI colorization of both photos and video footage
• Open-source models runnable locally
• Stability controls to reduce color artifacts
• Fast in-browser processing for images
• Community-driven improvements and variants
• Free tier for casual restoration

Because the code is open, DeOldify became infrastructure: many restoration services wrap it, and researchers extend it. The hosted site simply makes that technology accessible to anyone with a browser and an old photo.

Pricing

The open-source project is free. The hosted web service offers free usage with limits and paid plans for higher resolution and volume.

Who Is It For

History enthusiasts, family archivists, and video creators restoring monochrome media.

FAQ

Is DeOldify free to use?

Yes, the open-source code is free; the hosted site includes free usage with paid upsells.

Does DeOldify offer an API?

API access is offered through the hosted platform; locally you simply run the open-source code.

How does DeOldify compare to alternatives?

Palette.fm offers curated filters and convenience; DeOldify wins on openness, video support, and zero cost.

Can I run DeOldify locally?

Yes, the open-source code and weights run locally on consumer hardware.

Does it work on video?

Yes, video colorization is one of DeOldify’s distinguishing features versus photo-only tools.

What hardware runs DeOldify locally?

A modest GPU speeds things up, but CPU execution is possible for photos.

Is video colorization included?

Yes, video support is one of DeOldify’s signature capabilities.

Is DeOldify suitable for family archives?

Yes, it is one of the most popular free tools for restoring family photos.

How long does video take?

Processing time depends on length and model; shorter clips render quickly.

What makes DeOldify special?

It pioneered stable open-source colorization with video support, and its models remain free for anyone to run.