Every generation on Mage runs in one of two modes. Unlimited mode is what a membership buys: eligible models run without spending Gems, and the generation queues at your plan’s speed. Gems mode, which the app also calls Fast Mode, spends Gems to run the same generation at the front of the queue. Everything else about the output, including quality, is the same.
How the two modes relate
- Unlimited generations run 2x faster on Basic and 4x faster on Pro and above, but they queue.
- Gems work with every model, feature, and app on Mage, on any account including Free.
- Going above your plan’s resolution or duration ceiling is a separate use of Gems. You can do that and Fast Mode on one generation, or either on its own.
When it is worth it
- You are iterating and the queue wait is breaking your rhythm.
- You need output now for a deadline.
- You are on Free and have no unlimited allowance.
When to skip it
For volume work, unlimited is the point of the subscription. If you are generating hundreds of images on models your plan covers, queue them and let them run.
Gems and plans
Every paid plan includes monthly Gems: 500 on Basic, 1,500 on Pro, 3,500 on Pro Plus, and 15,000 on Max. New accounts get a one-time 300 Gem bonus. See how Gems work. Last modified on September 14, 2026
