4.2 – The Different Ways to Access DALL·E 3 Lesson

Lesson Overview

DALL·E 3 is a powerful image generation tool that can be accessed in a few different ways, each with its own features and limitations. In this lesson, you’ll learn about the two main methods: using Microsoft Copilot (available via Bing and Copilot Designer) and using OpenAI’s ChatGPT with DALL·E 3 integration.

Microsoft’s Copilot provides a straightforward way to turn ideas into images, all with a free Microsoft account. Its simplicity and no-cost access make it a great starting point if you’re looking to generate visuals quickly without advanced setup. However, its features are limited compared to other options. On the other hand, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, with a paid Plus subscription, unlocks the full power of DALL·E 3. You’ll get access to the latest versions, more precise control over image prompts, editing tools like in-painting, and the ability to customize image formats such as portrait or landscape.

This lesson is helpful if you’re evaluating AI image tools for creative work, content production, or personal projects. Whether you need a quick free image or professional-level refinement, understanding your access options ensures you choose the method best suited to your needs.

Who This Is For

If you want to add AI-generated images to your workflow or explore creative uses for DALL·E 3, this lesson helps you find the right starting point. Ideal for:

• Content creators curious about AI image generation
• Educators and students experimenting with digital visuals
• Marketers looking for fast graphic ideas
• Designers and artists needing flexible image creation tools
• Anyone comparing free and paid access to DALL·E 3
• Individuals with or without technical backgrounds

Where This Fits in a Workflow

Knowing your options to access DALL·E 3 is essential before starting any AI image project. Typically, early in your creative process, you’ll decide whether to use a quick, free approach or invest in more advanced tools for flexibility.

For example, a marketer might use Microsoft Copilot to rapidly create a campaign visual with no upfront cost. Later, they may switch to ChatGPT Plus for more editing control and aspect ratio options on the finished design. This initial choice directly shapes how you plan, generate, and refine AI-driven images for presentations, websites, or print—helping you avoid workflow roadblocks and choose tools that fit your project needs.

Technical & Workflow Benefits

Choosing the right DALL·E 3 access method can save time and improve your results. The traditional, manual way of searching for images or relying on basic graphics tools often limits creativity and consumes effort.

With Microsoft Copilot and Designer, you get immediate image generation from a free tool—excellent for quick drafts or brainstorming sessions, but with standard output and fewer customization options. On the other hand, using DALL·E 3 through ChatGPT Plus lets you fine-tune prompts, modify image size and shape, and edit directly within the tool. If you regularly require images with specific details or want to iterate on creative ideas, this advanced method elevates your efficiency and output quality. You’ll not only generate more relevant visuals but also reduce back-and-forth adjustments, making the process smoother from start to finish.

Practice Exercise

Try accessing DALL·E 3 using both the free and advanced options:

1. Sign in with a free Microsoft account to use Copilot or Copilot Designer. Generate a simple image using a single-sentence prompt—such as “a futuristic cityscape at dusk.”
2. If you have access, log in to ChatGPT Plus and use the DALL·E 3 tool to create a similar image, experimenting with the prompt to adjust style or aspect ratio.
3. Compare the images. Which tool was easier for you? Did one offer better customization? Think about which approach suits your typical needs and where you may want more control.

Course Context Recap

This lesson sits at a key point in your journey through The Ultimate Guide to Generative AI. Previously, you learned the fundamentals of prompt-based image generation. Here, you expanded your knowledge by comparing DALL·E 3 access methods. Up next, you’ll get step-by-step guidance on using Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT to generate and refine images in detail. Continue in the course to make the most of each platform and develop a workflow that matches your creative goals.