Codestral vs Llama 3.1 8B
Codestral vs Llama 3.1 8B: Llama 3.1 8B is cheaper for input-heavy usage ($0.18/M vs $0.30/M input tokens), while Codestral is better for long-context tasks (128,000 tokens).
Direct answer: choose Llama 3.1 8B for lower token spend and choose Codestral when your workload needs longer context.
Compare input and output token pricing, context windows, and monthly cost estimates on one page so you can pick the cheaper model fast.
Cost Comparison (1000 input + 500 output tokens, 100 requests/day)
Codestral
Llama 3.1 8B
Cost Differences
Llama 3.1 8B costs less than Codestral
Quick Recommendation
Winner for direct API pricing: Llama 3.1 8B. At the default workload, Llama 3.1 8B saves about $1.44/month ($17.52/year) versus Codestral.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Codestral | Llama 3.1 8B |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Mistral AI | Meta (via Together AI) |
| Input Price | $0.30/1M tokens | $0.18/1M tokens |
| Output Price | $0.90/1M tokens | $0.18/1M tokens |
| Context Window | 128,000 tokens | 128,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 32,768 tokens | 32,768 tokens |
| Category | balanced | efficient |
| Capabilities | textcode | textcode |
| Release Date | 7/30/2025 | 7/23/2024 |
Codestral vs Llama 3.1 8B: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between Codestral and Llama 3.1 8B depends on your priorities: cost efficiency, context length, or raw capability. Llama 3.1 8B is the more affordable option at $0.18/1M input tokens — 40% cheaper than Codestral.
These models come from different providers — Mistral AI and Meta (via Together AI) — which means different API ecosystems, SDKs, rate limits, and terms of service. If you're already integrated with Mistral AI, switching to Meta (via Together AI)involves migration effort beyond just pricing. Factor in your existing infrastructure when deciding.
These models target different tiers: Codestral is a balanced model while Llama 3.1 8B is efficient. This means they're optimized for different workloads. Llama 3.1 8B targets more demanding workloads, while Codestral provides a cost-effective option for everyday tasks.
Output costs matter too. Codestral charges $0.90/1M output tokens vs $0.18 for Llama 3.1 8B. For generation-heavy workloads (content creation, code generation, summarization), output pricing often dominates your bill. Llama 3.1 8B has the edge here at $0.18/1M output tokens.
Best Use Cases
Choose Codestral when:
- • You're already using Mistral AI's API ecosystem
Choose Llama 3.1 8B when:
- • Budget is a primary concern
- • You're already using Meta (via Together AI)'s API ecosystem
- • You're running high-volume, latency-sensitive workloads
Pros and Caveats at a Glance
Codestral
- • Input pricing: $0.30/M tokens
- • Output pricing: $0.90/M tokens
- • Context window: 128,000 tokens
- • Max output: 32,768 tokens
Watch out for
- • Higher input cost than Llama 3.1 8B
- • Higher output cost than Llama 3.1 8B
Llama 3.1 8B
- • Input pricing: $0.18/M tokens
- • Output pricing: $0.18/M tokens
- • Context window: 128,000 tokens
- • Max output: 32,768 tokens
Watch out for
- • Trade-offs are minor in this matchup.
Try Different Scenarios
Use the calculator below to see how costs change with different usage patterns
Codestral (Mistral AI)
Llama 3.1 8B (Meta (via Together AI))
Start using Codestral today
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Sign Up for Meta (via Together AI) →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, Codestral or Llama 3.1 8B?▼
What is the context window difference between Codestral and Llama 3.1 8B?▼
Which model is better for AI Chatbot?▼
Which model has better overall pricing for heavy usage?▼
Where can I compare Mistral AI and Meta (via Together AI) API pricing beyond this model matchup?▼
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