GPT-4.1 mini vs GPT-4o
Compare OpenAI and OpenAI AI models
Cost Comparison (1000 input + 500 output tokens, 100 requests/day)
GPT-4.1 mini
GPT-4o
Cost Differences
GPT-4o costs more than GPT-4.1 mini
Feature Comparison
| Feature | GPT-4.1 mini | GPT-4o |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | OpenAI | OpenAI |
| Input Price | $0.40/1M tokens | $2.50/1M tokens |
| Output Price | $1.60/1M tokens | $10.00/1M tokens |
| Context Window | 200,000 tokens | 128,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 16,384 tokens | 16,384 tokens |
| Category | efficient | flagship |
| Capabilities | textvisioncode | textvisionaudio |
| Release Date | 4/14/2025 | 5/13/2024 |
GPT-4.1 mini vs GPT-4o: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between GPT-4.1 mini and GPT-4o depends on your priorities: cost efficiency, context length, or raw capability. GPT-4.1 mini is the more affordable option at $0.40/1M input tokens — 84% cheaper than GPT-4o. Meanwhile, GPT-4.1 mini offers a significantly larger context window at 200,000 tokens vs 128,000 for GPT-4o.
These models target different tiers: GPT-4.1 mini is a efficient model while GPT-4o is flagship. This means they're optimized for different workloads. GPT-4o targets more demanding workloads, while GPT-4.1 mini provides a cost-effective option for everyday tasks.
Output costs matter too. GPT-4.1 mini charges $1.60/1M output tokens vs $10.00 for GPT-4o. For generation-heavy workloads (content creation, code generation, summarization), output pricing often dominates your bill. GPT-4.1 mini has the edge here at $1.60/1M output tokens.
Multimodal capabilities: Both models support vision (image understanding), so you can send images alongside text prompts with either option.
Best Use Cases
Choose GPT-4.1 mini when:
- • Budget is a primary concern
- • You need a larger context window (200,000 tokens)
- • You're already using OpenAI's API ecosystem
- • You're running high-volume, latency-sensitive workloads
Choose GPT-4o when:
- • You're already using OpenAI's API ecosystem
Try Different Scenarios
Use the calculator below to see how costs change with different usage patterns
GPT-4.1 mini (OpenAI)
GPT-4o (OpenAI)
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