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: 7-9When 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:
- Generate at CFG 6
- Generate at CFG 8
- Generate at CFG 10
Compare the results and find what works for your style!
Related Settings
- Steps - Works together with CFG
- Sampler - Different samplers respond differently to CFG
- Negative Prompt - Also affected by CFG scale