How to choose an image-to-video model

Start with the output you need

Decide where the video will be used: a product listing, vertical social post, presentation or personal project. This sets your aspect ratio, duration, detail and usage-rights requirements before you compare model names.

Test a representative image

Use one image that resembles your real work. A dramatic landscape demo says little about how well a model preserves a product label. Check both subtle and more noticeable motion with the same reference.

Compare usable output cost

Account for the number of attempts needed to get a usable result, not just the price of a single request. Also note waiting time and maximum concurrency if the work is time-sensitive.

Keep a test record

Record provider, model version, parameters and date. Versions and availability can change. The model pages in this workspace distinguish documented targets from completed live tests.

Try a complete example

Compare the original image, prompt and actual output in our landscape guide, product guide, rain example or snow example. These examples use Seedance 1.0 Pro at 720p for five seconds. The free trial uses 480p, so do not assume identical detail or motion.

For a controlled comparison, keep the input and prompt unchanged, choose an allowed setting on the model page, and record the quoted credits. Evaluate how many usable results you get across attempts rather than judging a model by one selected demonstration.