CFG Scale

CFG (Classifier-Free Guidance) Scale controls how closely the AI follows your prompt. Understanding this setting is crucial for getting the results you want.

What is CFG Scale?

CFG Scale determines the strength of guidance from your prompt:

  • Low values (3-6): AI has more creative freedom
  • Medium values (7-10): Balanced adherence to prompt
  • High values (11-15): Strict following of your prompt

Visual Comparison

CFG 5 - Creative Freedom

The AI interprets your prompt loosely, adding artistic flair and unexpected elements. Results may deviate from your exact description but often look more natural and artistic.

CFG 8 - Balanced (Recommended)

Good balance between following your prompt and maintaining natural-looking results. This is the sweet spot for most use cases.

CFG 12 - Strict Adherence

AI follows your prompt very closely. Useful for precise requirements but may look less natural or overcooked at very high values.

Recommended Ranges by Model

NoobAI-XL: 7-9
Duchaiten: 6-8
Hassaku Illustrious: 7-10
WAI NSFW Illustrious: 7-9

When to Adjust CFG

Use Lower CFG (5-7) when:

  • You want more artistic interpretation
  • Your prompt is simple
  • You're exploring creative variations
  • Results look "overcooked" or artificial

Use Higher CFG (9-12) when:

  • You need precise control
  • Your prompt is complex and specific
  • Lower CFG ignores important details
  • You have very specific requirements

Common Issues

Problem: Images look oversaturated or artificial

Solution: Lower your CFG scale by 1-2 points

Problem: AI ignores parts of your prompt

Solution: Increase CFG scale or use emphasis (keywords)

Problem: Results are inconsistent

Solution: Use CFG 7-8 for more predictable results

Advanced Tips

  • Negative prompt interaction: Higher CFG strengthens negative prompts too
  • Model dependency: Different models have different optimal CFG ranges
  • Sampler interaction: Some samplers work better with specific CFG ranges
  • Quality vs control: Lower CFG often produces more natural-looking images

Experimentation Guide

Try the same prompt with different CFG values:

  1. Generate at CFG 6
  2. Generate at CFG 8
  3. Generate at CFG 10

Compare the results and find what works for your style!

Related Settings