Cashew Crate
← All posts
Comparisons·2026-01-23·5 min read

Background Removal Tools Compared: Cloud vs Browser

Background Removal Tools Compared: Cloud vs Browser

Removing backgrounds from images used to be a Photoshop-only skill. Then came cloud-based AI tools like remove.bg. Now, the same AI models can run directly in your browser.

Cloud-Based Tools

remove.bg is the gold standard for cloud-based background removal. It's fast, accurate, and handles tricky edges well. But:

  • •Files are uploaded to their servers
  • •Free tier gives you low-resolution results
  • •HD downloads cost credits ($1-2 each)
  • •Batch processing requires a subscription ($9+/mo)

    • Canva includes background removal in its Pro plan ($13/mo), but it's part of a much larger tool — overkill if you just need background removal.

    Browser-Based Alternative

    BG Be Gone uses the same class of AI models (neural networks for image segmentation) but runs them directly in your browser using WebAssembly and WebGL.

    Pros:

  • •Zero uploads — complete privacy
  • •No per-image costs
  • •Works offline after first load
  • •Instant results on modern hardware

    • Cons:

  • •First load downloads the AI model (~5MB)
  • •Processing speed depends on your device
  • •Very complex edges may be slightly less accurate

    • The Verdict

    For most use cases — product photos, profile pictures, social media content — browser-based removal is indistinguishable from cloud-based. The privacy benefit alone makes it worth trying.

    Try our tools for free

    Every tool works in your browser with zero uploads.

    Browse tools →