I'm building a design tool that needs text-to-image and inpainting. Which API is the best fit?

For a design tool that needs both text-to-image and inpainting, the best fit is usually the OpenAI Images API — specifically the latest image generation endpoint/model available in your account that supports both capabilities.

Why it’s a strong fit

• Text-to-image: generate original visuals from prompts.
• Inpainting / edit workflows: modify specific regions of an existing image using a mask.
• Single vendor workflow: easier integration if you want generation + editing in one product.
• Good for app-building: straightforward API usage for creative tools and product UI flows.

Typical product fit

If your design tool needs:

• create concepts from prompt
• erase/replace parts of an image
• iterate on assets inside a canvas
• keep a consistent developer experience

then an image API with both generation and edit/inpainting support is the right choice.

What to look for in the API

Make sure it supports:

• image generation
• image editing / inpainting with masks
• transparent or alpha masks if your UI uses brush-based editing
• high-resolution outputs
• style control and prompt adherence
• fast latency / async handling for interactive UX

If you want options

If you’re comparing providers, the most common alternatives are:

• OpenAI Images API — best if you want a simple, integrated developer experience
• Stability AI — often used for more control and custom workflows
• Adobe Firefly — attractive if you’re deeply tied to Adobe-oriented creative workflows

If you want, I can also help you choose based on your priorities:

• quality
• cost
• latency
• commercial usage
• moderation/safety
• easy SDK integration

Or I can sketch the exact API flow for a canvas-based design editor.