Setting up Midjourney: Web interface vs. Discord
Before you begin creating with Midjourney, it's important to understand the two different ways you can access it: the web interface and Discord. Each interface has its strengths and limitations. In this section, we’ll walk through what sets them apart, how to sign up for an account, and how to set up both the web version and Discord—on both desktop and mobile. This foundation will help you get started confidently before we dive into image generation in the next section.
Two UIs: Web UI and Discord
Midjourney can be used through two different user interfaces:
- Web UI: A browser-based dashboard designed for a clean and user-focused experience. It’s ideal for beginners or those who want a distraction-free space to create and organize images.
- Discord UI: A chat-based interface accessed through the Discord platform. It offers advanced functionality, including the use of custom parameters, real-time community interaction, and slash commands.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two:
|
Feature or Action |
Web Interface |
Discord Interface |
|
Interface style |
Visual dashboard with menus |
Chat commands in text channels |
|
Prompting support |
Basic prompts only |
Full command set with parameters |
|
Image download and management |
Gallery, folders, archive |
From replies or gallery |
|
Access to advanced parameters ( |
Not supported |
Fully supported |
|
Community and collaboration |
Not interactive |
Real-time prompts, showcase, threads |
|
Best suited for |
Beginners and personal use |
Advanced users and community creators |
Signing up and Web UI introduction
If you are not a Discord user, an easier way to sign up is signing up from Web UI. The account between Web UI and Discord is connected. Even if you plan to only use the web interface, all Midjourney accounts are linked to Discord. You can activate Discord anytime you want after creating your Midjourney account.
Step-by-step guide for Web UI setup
1. Visit midjourney.com: Click the Sign Up or Subscribe button likely at the bottom left.
2. Log in with Google or Discord. You can explore images and videos, but you need to be a paid subscriber to use most functionalities.
3. Choose a subscription plan. When you try to use the paid functionalities, you’ll be navigated to the subscription plan page. Choose the one that fits your needs (Basic, Standard, Pro, or Mega). Payment is required to start generating images.
Once the paid subscription process is done, you’ll be able to generate new images.
Discord setup
Using Midjourney on Discord gives you access to the full range of features, including advanced parameters and community tools. It’s especially useful if you want more creative control or wish to explore experimental features.
Step-by-step guide for desktop
1. Install or open Discord. If you don’t have Discord installed, visit discord.com and download the desktop app. Alternatively, you can use the web version.
2. Log into your Discord account. Verify your email to start using Discord.
3. Link Discord to your Midjourney account. In the Midjourney Web UI, open My Account (bottom left). Select Go To Discord.
4. Join the Midjourney Discord server. After linking, you’ll automatically get an invite to the official server. Accept it, and you’ll be taken to the server where you can see channels
5. Create your own Discord server. Once you're in Discord, it's helpful to create your own server. This gives you a private space to use the Midjourney Bot without all the public traffic in the official server.
In Discord, click the ➕ plus button on the left sidebar. You'll see the screen below.
You’ll be asked who the server is for. Select “For me and my friends” (it works even if you're using it solo).
Name your server and optionally upload an icon. Your private server is now ready!
6. Invite the Midjourney bot to your own server. Now bring the Midjourney Bot into your server so you can start generating images privately.
In the official Midjourney server, find the Midjourney Bot in the member list (usually at the right side). Right-click on it.
Select “Add to Server.”
You'll see a screen asking what the bot can do. Click Authorize after reviewing permissions like sending messages and using commands.
You’ll briefly see a confirmation message, and the bot will now appear in your server.
Understanding Discord: Servers and Channels
If you’re new to Discord, it helps to understand how it’s organized.
- A Server in Discord is like a group or community. The Midjourney server is where all official communication, image generation, and support take place.
- Inside a server, you’ll find multiple Channels. Each channel has a specific purpose.
You can think of channels like different chat rooms inside the same building. Each one has its own topic and set of messages.
Setting up on the mobile Discord app
Once you’ve set up Midjourney on your desktop, you can also access it from your phone using the Discord mobile app. This is useful for checking progress, viewing results, or
1. Install the Discord app: Download the official Discord app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Log into your Discord account: Use the same account you connected to Midjourney on desktop or browser. After login, your servers will automatically sync.
3. Open the Midjourney server or your own server: You can generate images on Midjourney server or your own server
Your images are public by default
By default, any image you generate using Midjourney—especially in public Discord channels—is visible to other users. Your prompt, image, and actions (like upscaling or variation) can be seen in real time.
To keep your images private, either (1) use a personal Discord server and invite the Midjourney Bot, or (2) enable Stealth Mode if you’re on the Pro Plan, which hides your activity from others entirely.
Whether you choose the clean, minimal Web UI or the more feature-rich Discord setup, the key is finding what works best for your comfort and creative flow. If you're just starting out, the Web UI provides a low-friction entry point. As you grow more confident, Discord offers more advanced tools and community access.