Headshotly.ai Vs. Media.io: Which AI Headshot Service Offers More Customization?
Let’s face it, first impressions now start with your profile picture. Whether you’re a lawyer, doctor, or startup founder, your LinkedIn headshot is more than just a photo. It’s your personal brand in pixels.
If you’ve been exploring AI-generated portraits lately, you’ve probably come across Media.io’s Pixpic and HeadShotly.ai. Both promise polished results, but not all headshots are created equal. While Pixpic leans into creative filters and playful aesthetics, HeadShotly.ai also offers stylized options like Ghibli-style AI headshots while focusing on sharp, realistic, and professional images that actually look like you, just on your best day.
This comparison takes a close look at both platforms across image quality, turnaround time, features, pricing, and value. You’ll get a clear picture of which tool suits your needs, whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or company bio.
What’s the Main Difference Between HeadShotly.ai and Media.io (Pixpic)
Media.io (Pixpic) focuses on variety and artistic styles, offering AI-generated headshots that blend realism with creativity. It uses facial analysis and style presets to deliver results in around 25 minutes.
HeadShotly.ai, however, builds a custom-trained AI model per user using 10 or more images and delivers studio-grade, 4K realism in under 5 minutes. It includes advanced tools like AI video branding, outfit and background replication, and prompt-to-image generation.
So while Media.io is fun and flexible, HeadShotly.ai is built for professionals who want fast, ultra-realistic results that actually look like them.
HeadShotly.ai vs Media.io (Pixpic): Feature Comparison Chart
| Feature | HeadShotly.ai | Media.io (Pixpic) |
|---|---|---|
| 4K Ultra-Realistic AI Headshots | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| AI Video Branding | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Style Replication (Upload Outfit/Style) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Unlimited Outfit and Background Options | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Turnaround Time | ✅ 5 minutes | ❌ 25 minutes |
| AI Editing and Prompt Tools | ✅ Yes | ✅ Basic only |
| Custom AI Model per User | ✅ Yes | ✅ Limited |
| Artistic Portraits and Filters | ✅ Optional | ✅ Yes |
| Professional Styling and Branding | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Free Version | ✅ Free AI tools | ✅ Partial |
| Pricing | ✅ From $15 | ❓ Undisclosed |
| Email Notification | ✅ Real-time | ✅ Yes |
| Refund Policy | ✅ Full refund guarantee | ❌ Unclear |
Turnaround Time
Pixpic promises headshots in about 25 minutes. HeadShotly.ai delivers ultra-realistic, fully customizable headshots in under 5 minutes. That’s not just faster, it’s a full work break faster.
Winner: HeadShotly.ai
Customization, Outfits and Backgrounds
Media.io offers different preset styles like business, social, or creative, but they’re locked to what the platform provides. HeadShotly.ai gives you unlimited customization, including the ability to upload your own outfit, background, or style reference.
You want to look like you’re wearing your actual suit? Just upload a photo of it. No presets needed.
Winner: HeadShotly.ai
Image Quality and Realism
While Pixpic blends AI enhancements with aesthetics, the images still have an “AI-art” feel, especially in creative modes. HeadShotly.ai creates 4K headshots that mimic real studio portraits with natural lighting, shadows, and facial structure. If you’re aiming for business-grade realism, this difference matters.
Winner: HeadShotly.ai
AI Tools and Features
Pixpic keeps it simple with basic filters. HeadShotly.ai gives you complete creative control with access to a full range of tools.
Top AI Features from HeadShotly.ai
-
Image-to-image AI generator for refining casual photos into professional portraits
-
Text-to-image AI creator for generating headshots from concepts
-
AI image-to-prompt converter for better prompt quality
-
AI background remover for quick environment edits
-
AI image upscaler to enhance sharpness and realism
Winner: HeadShotly.ai
Pricing and Value for Money
Pixpic claims to be more affordable but doesn’t list clear pricing. This often means upsells or limited access.
HeadShotly.ai is transparent with its plans:
-
$15 Starter Plan
-
$39 Premium Plan with 240+ images, AI video branding, and full customization
Winner: HeadShotly.ai
Platform Performance on Web and Mobile
Both tools work on desktop and mobile browsers. However, HeadShotly.ai’s cloud-based infrastructure is optimized for speed and high-volume image generation. This makes it ideal for both personal and team use.
Winner: HeadShotly.ai
Target Audience Breakdown
| Platform | Best For |
|---|---|
| Media.io | Social media users, creatives, casual users |
| HeadShotly.ai | Job seekers, entrepreneurs, business teams, content creators |
If your goal is to elevate your career presence, HeadShotly.ai provides the tools for that.
Limitations
| Platform | Limitation |
|---|---|
| HeadShotly.ai | Requires 10+ images for best results |
| Media.io | Less customization, longer waits, unclear pricing |
Bonus: Tools Beyond Headshots
Want to diversify your visuals? HeadShotly.ai also offers:
-
Free Studio Ghibli AI filter to turn your selfie into an anime portrait
-
Snapchat-style avatar generator for fun social visuals
-
AI consistent character generator for brand storytelling
-
Realistic photo generator for lifelike avatars
These features go far beyond basic selfies and allow full brand development.
FAQs – HeadShotly.ai vs Media.io
1. Which platform produces more realistic headshots?
HeadShotly.ai delivers 4K studio-style images that beat Pixpic’s artistic filters.
2. Who offers more outfit and background control?
HeadShotly.ai lets you upload your own clothing or backdrop reference for custom styling.
3. Is Pixpic completely free?
Only partially. Some features are free, but pricing lacks transparency.
4. Which is faster?
HeadShotly.ai generates results in just 5 minutes.
5. Can Pixpic generate animated avatars?
Yes. HeadShotly.ai focuses more on professional realism rather than animation.
Final Verdict: Is HeadShotly.ai Better Than Media.io?
Yes, especially if professionalism matters.
Pixpic is a great option for artistic and casual headshots. But if you’re looking for realistic, fast, fully customizable, and career-oriented images, HeadShotly.ai clearly wins.
Choose HeadShotly.ai if:
-
You need ultra-realistic 4K AI headshots
-
You want results in under 5 minutes
-
You care about full control over outfit, style, and branding
-
You need AI-powered tools beyond just a headshot
Explore HeadShotly.ai’s full suite of free AI photo tools to unlock studio-quality headshots and personal branding assets today.