Knockout API vs LocalBG

Knockout API provides image and video processing through a browser app and API. Its image tools cover background removal and replacement, batch processing, masking, smart crop, stickers, outlines, shadows, and inpainting; the API also handles upscaling, portrait restoration, colorization, and object removal. Video background removal runs asynchronously, with job polling for progress. The browser Canvas supports layered designs with text and effects, and users can save canvases and cutouts to a free account. Developers can connect through REST, any HTTP client, or official Node, React, Python, and CLI options. The service says it manages GPU processing, endpoint updates, usage records, credentials, teams, and billing. Its privacy policy says uploaded images are processed in GPU worker memory, not retained after the response, and not used to train models. The Free plan is free, with 30 images per month and 60 requests per minute. Pay-as-you-go is $0.02 a month, with metered usage billed monthly; Plus is $10 a month. Paid tiers have no monthly cap and a 600-request-per-minute limit.

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.