LocalBG

LocalBG is a background-removal app that processes images, video, and GIFs on your device. It suits people who want private local processing or need to automate repeat image work. The free tier handles unlimited full-resolution images, but batch work and video require Pro.

Overview

LocalBG’s local processing is its clearest distinction: it can work offline, and its maker says media is never transmitted and the app does not collect or transmit personal data from within the software. Internet access is needed for license activation or renewal and optional update checks, so offline use does not remove those account and maintenance steps.

For repeatable workflows, its command-line interface can be wrapped in a self-hosted HTTP API using frameworks such as Express or FastAPI. The maker also documents running the Linux AppImage headlessly in cron jobs, Docker, and CI pipelines. A practical installation caveat: the software is not code signed yet, and operating systems may flag its installer.

Key features

LocalBG imports JPG, JPEG, PNG, WEBP, and GIF, with PNG and WEBP image exports. It supports replacement backgrounds and tools including sticker export, resizing, compression, watermarks, alpha masks, auto-centering, shadows, reflections, AI enhancement, and layered PSD export. That range suits users who need to prepare cutouts for a broader production workflow, though the Free plan excludes resizing and compression.

Pro adds batch processing and background removal for MP4, MOV, AVI, WebM, and MKV. Video can be exported as ProRes 4444 with an alpha channel or as green-screen MP4, which gives users options for compositing rather than only finished flat images. LocalBG lists GPU acceleration for Windows, with NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel support.

Pricing

The Free plan costs nothing and processes unlimited images at full resolution, one at a time, without an account or watermark. It does not include bulk processing, resizing, or compression, and its stated formats are JPG, JPEG, PNG, and WEBP. This is a strong fit for occasional or individual image work, but not for a queue of assets.

Pro costs €8 a month, billed monthly after a 3-day free trial; prices exclude VAT. It adds bulk processing, video and GIF removal, AI model import (ONNX), AI Enhance, Edge Despill, resizing and compression, PSD export, and use on up to three devices. A 14-day money-back guarantee softens the commitment, but the monthly charge is best suited to people who will use those expanded tools regularly. One Pro license covers up to three devices, not an unlimited team.

Platforms

LocalBG supports API, Linux, macOS, self-hosted, and Windows workflows. Its documented headless Linux use makes it a plausible fit for server-side automation, while GPU acceleration is listed for Windows. The installer’s unsigned status is worth considering before installing on a device that warns about unsigned software.

Who it's for

Choose LocalBG if you want local, potentially offline image processing, need unlimited free single-image work, or plan to automate a Linux-based workflow. Pro makes more sense for frequent batch jobs, video or GIF cutouts, and users who need resizing, compression, or layered PSD export. It is less suitable if you need a browser-first workflow or want bulk image processing without a recurring paid plan.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Unlimited full-resolution free image processing avoids per-image quotas for one-at-a-time work.
• Pro: Local and offline processing suits sensitive media and disconnected workflows.
• Pro: CLI access and documented Linux headless operation support automation in cron, Docker, and CI.
• Con: Batch processing and video require Pro, so the free tier is not a production queue tool.
• Con: Pro renews monthly at €8 a month after a 3-day trial, with VAT excluded.
• Con: The unsigned installer may trigger operating-system warnings.

Alternatives

AI Background Removers is a category directory for comparing options. Consider Cutout.Pro if you want a freemium option spanning Android, iOS, web, desktop, and API platforms; its listed subscription starts at $5 a month for 80 credits. Slazzer offers a free tier with 2 credits for personal use and evaluation, making it a better fit for a small trial than LocalBG’s unlimited local single-image workflow. Pixelcut is an option for Android, iOS, web, or API use, with limited free background removal and watermark-free free exports.

BackgroundRemover is worth considering if open-source software that can be installed locally for free with pip or from source is the priority. Knockout API fits a web or API workflow with a recurring free allowance of 30 images per month. Don’s Tools Background Remover offers a free option for processing up to 150 images at once. RemoveBackgrounds.ai is a free web, iOS, and Android alternative that supports batches of up to 30 images. Erase.bg is another freemium option for Android, API, or web use, with a free starter plan offering 3 credits and 3 downloads for personal use.

Verdict

LocalBG is a solid choice for people who value local processing, want unlimited free single-image removal, or need Linux automation. Pro’s batch, video, and editing tools justify consideration for regular production work, but users should weigh the monthly price and unsigned installer against their workflow; occasional users can stay on Free, while those who need browser-first removal should look elsewhere.