Midjourney releases V8.1 with 4-5x faster rendering and cheaper HD mode
Midjourney
Midjourney released V8.1 on April 30, 2026 as its fastest image model to date, with standard jobs rendering 4-5x faster than prior versions. The update brings improved prompt adherence, better small-detail retention, sharper SREFs and moodboards, and a V7-inspired aesthetic. HD mode is 3x faster and 3x cheaper; standard resolution is 50% faster and 25% cheaper. New tools include restored image prompts, a Prompt Shortener, and an updated Describe feature.
Why it matters
V8.1 sharply lowers the cost and latency of high-quality generations from the most popular paid image platform, making iterative creative workflows materially cheaper while restoring the V7 look many users preferred over V8.0.
Importance: 4/5
Major version of the most-used paid text-to-image model with substantial speed and pricing changes.