BackgroundRemover vs LocalBG

BackgroundRemover uses AI to remove image and video backgrounds, with options for people, general subjects, or faster processing. Images can be refined with alpha matting or mask output, then given a color or image background; video output can be transparent MOV, matte key, GIF, or a composite over another image or video. Its command-line formats include JPG, JPEG, PNG, HEIC, and HEIF images, and MP4, MOV, WebM, OGG, and GIF video. The open-source project can be installed locally for free with pip or from source, and it offers a local HTTP API as well as a hosted REST API with examples in Python, PHP, JavaScript, and C#. GPU detection is automatic, with CPU fallback when needed. The Free plan is free and allows one standard-resolution transparent PNG image daily, short videos, and ads, without batch processing. Pro (annual) is $9 a year, billed at US$ 108.0 annually; Pro (monthly) is $12 a month.

LocalBG removes backgrounds from images, videos and GIFs while processing files on the user's machine. It can work offline; the maker says internet access is needed for license activation or renewal and optional update checks. The maker also says media is never transmitted and that the app does not collect or transmit personal data from within the software. The Free plan processes unlimited images one at a time at full resolution, with no account or watermark. Pro adds batch processing, video and GIF removal, resizing, compression, AI enhancement and layered PSD export. Images can be imported as JPG, JPEG, PNG, WEBP or GIF and exported as PNG or WEBP. Pro supports MP4, MOV, AVI, WebM and MKV video, with ProRes 4444 alpha-channel or green-screen MP4 export. Other features include custom backgrounds, stickers, watermarks, alpha masks, auto-centering, shadows and reflections. A command-line interface can be wrapped in a self-hosted HTTP API, and the maker documents headless Linux use in cron jobs, Docker and CI pipelines. Pro costs €8.00 per month after a 3-day trial; prices exclude VAT.