model guide
Nano Banana 2.1: Latest Gemini AI Image Generation
Nano Banana 2.1 guide with 1K-4K output, 14 aspect ratios, reference image editing, Kansova credit costs, and limitations.
TL;DR
The newest Nano Banana generation for reference-guided edits with 1K-4K output.
Who this is for
- Brands producing campaign assets at 2K or 4K.
- Designers who need faithful reference-guided edits.
- Teams comparing image models by cost per finished asset.
Best for / Not best for
Best for
- 1K-4K output
- Reference-guided edits
- Campaign assets
- Material and texture fidelity
Not best for
- Low-cost bulk drafts
- Exact logo reproduction
- Video generation
- CAD-accurate output
Parameters
| Parameter | Supported value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Model | nano-banana-2.1 | Official version, billed by actual token usage. |
| Output size | 1K, 2K, or 4K | 4K doubles the credit cost. |
| Aspect ratio | 14 presets, 1:4 through 8:1 | Common ratios: 1:1, 16:9, 9:16, 4:3. |
| Reference image | Image-to-image supported | Output follows the reference aspect ratio when size is omitted. |
| Images per request | One | Kansova generates one image per task. |
Pricing
Kansova bills generations in credits. Basic is $9.90/month for 300 credits; Pro is $19/month for 750 credits; Studio is $39/month for 1,700 credits.
| Generation | Kansova credits | Cost methodology |
|---|---|---|
| 1K or 2K image | 8 credits | Provider bills by token usage |
| 4K image | 16 credits | Higher output tokens |
| Reference edit | Same as generation tier | Reference images add input tokens |
Comparison
| Dimension | Nano Banana 2.1 | Nano Banana 2.1 Ext | Nano Banana Pro | Nano Banana |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary strength | Newest Gemini edits | Predictable pricing | 4K premium edits | Fast edits |
| Billing basis | Token usage | Per image | Per generation | Per generation |
| Max output | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K |
| Kansova cost | 8-16 credits | 8-16 credits | 8-16 credits | 4-8 credits |
| Best workflow | Latest quality | Cost planning | Final 4K assets | Rapid variations |
Prompt examples
- 01
Premium glass serum bottle on a pale blue plinth, soft water caustics, clean ecommerce lighting, 1:1. - 02
Replace the chair in this interior with a low sculptural stone bench while preserving camera angle and lighting. - 03
Minimal editorial still life of brushed steel objects on dark glass, precise reflections, restrained luxury campaign. - 04
Modern concrete courtyard house at dusk, warm interior light, native planting, realistic architectural visualization. - 05
Create three colorway concepts for this packaging while preserving its proportions and label hierarchy.
Known limitations
- Official version is billed by token usage upstream, so cost varies with prompt and reference size.
- Logos and small typography still require manual review.
- Reference fidelity varies with edit complexity.
- Provider availability can change output tiers without notice.
Alternatives
Frequently asked questions
How many credits does Nano Banana 2.1 use?
Kansova charges 8 credits for a 1K or 2K image and 16 credits for 4K.
What is the difference between 2.1 and 2.1 Ext?
Same output dimensions and quality. The official version is billed upstream by actual token usage; Ext is billed per image by resolution tier, so its cost is more predictable.
Does 2.1 support reference image editing?
Yes. Provide a reference image and describe only the changes you want.
What resolutions are available?
1K, 2K, and 4K. 0.5K and 512 are not supported by this model.
Last updated
2026-11-10
Sources and methodology
Capabilities were checked against the provider API material supplied to Kansova and the live Kansova controls on 2026-07-06. Credit figures are taken from the production pricing function; provider rates are reference figures and may change independently.
- EvoLink API documentation index
Provider documentation used to verify image modes and output tiers.
- Kansova product facts
Canonical list of supported workflows and current limitations.
- Kansova pricing
Current subscription and monthly credit allowances.