What is the difference between --quality and --q in Midjourney?

There is no functional difference. `--q` is simply the shorthand alias for `--quality`. Both parameters control the rendering quality and detail level of the generated image. You can use either one interchangeably in your prompts.

Does --q affect the aspect ratio or image size?

No, the `--q` parameter primarily affects the level of detail, texture fidelity, and overall rendering polish of the image. The aspect ratio is controlled by `--ar`, and the initial grid image size is generally fixed by the Midjourney version, with upscaling options available to increase resolution later.

When should I use --q 0.25 versus --q 2?

Use `--q 0.25` when you need very fast generations, are brainstorming many ideas, or for simple, abstract concepts where intricate detail isn't a priority. Use `--q 2` when you require maximum detail, photorealism, or a highly polished final image, and you are willing to spend more GPU time for superior fidelity.

Can I change the --q value after an image has been generated?

You cannot directly change the `--q` value of an already generated image. The quality setting is applied during the initial generation process. If you want to see an image at a different quality level, you would need to re-run the prompt with the desired `--q` parameter.

Parameter GuideMidjourney

Mastering Midjourney Quality (--q): Your Definitive Guide

This guide explains how Midjourney's quality parameter (--q) controls the level of detail and rendering time for your generated images. Learn the practical differences between quality values from --q .25 to --q 5, understand when to use lower settings for quick iterations versus higher settings for final output, and discover how quality interacts with other parameters to optimize both your results and your GPU minutes.

Values & Usage

--q 0.25 (or --quality .25)0.25

This is the lowest quality setting, offering the fastest generation speed and consuming the least GPU time. Ideal for rapid brainstorming, quick concept validation, or when generating a large number of variations where fine details aren't critical. Results can be less refined.

--q 0.5 (or --quality .5)0.5

A good balance between speed and detail. Use this for early-stage development, exploring different compositions, or when you need a decent image quickly without the full cost of higher quality. It's often a sweet spot for many users.

--q 1 (or --quality 1)1

The default quality setting. This provides a good level of detail and rendering, suitable for most general-purpose image generations. It balances GPU usage with a satisfactory output quality for a wide range of subjects and styles.

--q 2 (or --quality 2)2

The highest quality setting currently available in Midjourney V6. This consumes the most GPU time but delivers the most intricate details, refined textures, and overall polished output. Recommended for final renders, photorealistic images, or when extreme precision and fidelity are paramount.

Example Prompts

A highly detailed, cinematic shot of a futuristic city at night, showcasing intricate architectural elements and dynamic lighting, demonstrating --q 2.

intermediate

VISUAL STYLE: Cinematic, GENRE: Sci-Fi, SUBJECT(S): Futuristic cityscape, neon signs, flying vehicles, TIME PERIOD: 22nd Century, COLOR: Cyberpunk blues and purples with orange accents, ASPECT RATIO: 7:4, FORMAT: Digital Illustration, FRAME SIZE: Full Shot, LENS SIZE: Wide-angle, COMPOSITION: Dynamic, leading lines, LIGHTING: High Contrast, LIGHTING TYPE: Neon, Ambient, TIME OF DAY: Night, ENVIRONMENT: Urban, LOCATION TYPE: Metropolis Rooftop, SET: Dystopian Future, CAMERA: Arri Alexa LF, LENS: Zeiss Supreme Prime 25mm, FILM STOCK / RESOLUTION: 8K, TAGS: highly detailed, intricate, atmospheric, glowing --v 6 --q 2 --ar 7:4

A charming, painterly illustration of a whimsical forest scene with soft textures and a dreamy atmosphere, suitable for --q 1.

beginner

VISUAL STYLE: Impressionistic Painting, GENRE: Fantasy, SUBJECT(S): Enchanted forest, glowing mushrooms, tiny faeries, TIME PERIOD: Timeless, COLOR: Soft pastels, emerald greens, gold, ASPECT RATIO: 7:4, FORMAT: Digital Painting, FRAME SIZE: Medium Shot, LENS SIZE: Standard, COMPOSITION: Rule of thirds, focus on faeries, LIGHTING: Soft, diffused, LIGHTING TYPE: Magical Glow, Backlight, TIME OF DAY: Dawn, ENVIRONMENT: Forest, LOCATION TYPE: Ancient Woodland, SET: Fairy Tale, CAMERA: N/A, LENS: N/A, FILM STOCK / RESOLUTION: 4K, TAGS: whimsical, dreamy, ethereal, painterly, soft focus --v 6 --q 1 --ar 7:4

A quick concept sketch of a robotic character in a minimalist setting, prioritizing speed over extreme detail, ideal for --q 0.5.

beginner

VISUAL STYLE: Concept Art Sketch, GENRE: Sci-Fi, SUBJECT(S): Humanoid robot, simple geometric shapes, TIME PERIOD: Near Future, COLOR: Greyscale, metallic, ASPECT RATIO: 7:4, FORMAT: Pencil Sketch, FRAME SIZE: Close-up, LENS SIZE: Standard, COMPOSITION: Centered, clean background, LIGHTING: Flat, even, LIGHTING TYPE: Studio Light, TIME OF DAY: Daytime, ENVIRONMENT: Studio, LOCATION TYPE: White Room, SET: Test Lab, CAMERA: N/A, LENS: N/A, FILM STOCK / RESOLUTION: 1080p, TAGS: quick sketch, concept, minimalist, simple, early stage --v 6 --q 0.5 --ar 7:4

An ultra-realistic macro shot of a dewdrop on a spiderweb, emphasizing minute textures and photographic fidelity, showcasing --q 2 with high detail.

advanced

VISUAL STYLE: Photorealistic, GENRE: Nature Photography, SUBJECT(S): Dewdrop, spiderweb, morning light, TIME PERIOD: Contemporary, COLOR: Clear, vibrant green, rainbow reflections, ASPECT RATIO: 7:4, FORMAT: Macro Photograph, FRAME SIZE: Extreme Close-up, LENS SIZE: Macro, COMPOSITION: Rule of thirds, shallow depth of field, LIGHTING: Natural, soft, LIGHTING TYPE: Backlight, Diffused Sunlight, TIME OF DAY: Early Morning, ENVIRONMENT: Garden, LOCATION TYPE: Forest Floor, SET: Natural Habitat, CAMERA: Sony Alpha a7R V, LENS: Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS, FILM STOCK / RESOLUTION: 8K, TAGS: macro, detailed, realistic, sharp focus, intricate texture --v 6 --q 2 --ar 7:4

Pro Tips

1Start low, then go high: Begin your ideation with `--q 0.5` or `--q 1` to quickly test concepts. Once you find a composition or style you like, re-roll with `--q 2` for a high-fidelity final render.
2Monitor GPU usage: Keep an eye on your GPU minutes, especially when using `--q 2`. High quality consumes more resources, so use it judiciously for critical prompts.
3Combine with --stylize: While --q impacts detail, --stylize influences artistic flair. Experiment with different combinations (e.g., `--q 2 --s 500`) to find your desired balance between realism and artistic interpretation.
4Use for upscaling: If you generate an image with a lower `--q` and decide you want more detail, you can use the 'Upscale (Strong)' or 'Upscale (Subtle)' buttons without rerunning the initial prompt at a higher `--q`.
5Consider your subject: For simple, graphic, or abstract designs, a lower `--q` might be perfectly adequate. For complex scenes, photorealistic portraits, or intricate machinery, `--q 2` will yield significantly better results.

Common Mistakes

✕Always using `--q 2`: This wastes GPU minutes on early-stage concepts or simple images that don't require maximum detail.

✕Expecting `--q` to fix bad prompts: A high quality setting won't compensate for a vague or poorly structured prompt. Focus on clear, descriptive language first.

✕Confusing `--q` with resolution: While higher `--q` often leads to more perceived detail, it doesn't directly change the pixel dimensions of the initial grid images. Upscaling handles resolution.

✕Not understanding the cost: Forgetting that higher `--q` values directly translate to more GPU time used, which can quickly deplete your Fast GPU hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

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