Grok 3 Mini vs Grok Code Fast 1
Grok 3 Mini vs Grok Code Fast 1: Grok Code Fast 1 is cheaper for input-heavy usage ($0.20/M vs $0.30/M input tokens), while Grok Code Fast 1 is better for long-context tasks (256,000 tokens).
Direct answer: choose Grok Code Fast 1 for lower token spend and choose Grok Code Fast 1 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)
Grok 3 Mini
Grok Code Fast 1
Cost Differences
Grok Code Fast 1 costs more than Grok 3 Mini
Quick Recommendation
Winner for direct API pricing: Grok 3 Mini. At the default workload, Grok 3 Mini saves about $1.20/month ($14.60/year) versus Grok Code Fast 1.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Grok 3 Mini | Grok Code Fast 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | xAI | xAI |
| Input Price | $0.30/1M tokens | $0.20/1M tokens |
| Output Price | $0.50/1M tokens | $1.50/1M tokens |
| Context Window | 128,000 tokens | 256,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 131,072 tokens | 32,768 tokens |
| Category | efficient | standard |
| Capabilities | textreasoningcode | textcodereasoning |
| Release Date | 2/17/2025 | 2/1/2026 |
Grok 3 Mini vs Grok Code Fast 1: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between Grok 3 Mini and Grok Code Fast 1 depends on your priorities: cost efficiency, context length, or raw capability. Grok 3 Mini is the more affordable option at $0.30/1M input tokens. Meanwhile, Grok Code Fast 1 offers a significantly larger context window at 256,000 tokens vs 128,000 for Grok 3 Mini.
These models target different tiers: Grok 3 Mini is a efficient model while Grok Code Fast 1 is standard. This means they're optimized for different workloads. Grok Code Fast 1 targets more demanding workloads, while Grok 3 Mini provides a cost-effective option for everyday tasks.
Output costs matter too. Grok 3 Mini charges $0.50/1M output tokens vs $1.50 for Grok Code Fast 1. For generation-heavy workloads (content creation, code generation, summarization), output pricing often dominates your bill. Grok 3 Mini has the edge here at $0.50/1M output tokens.
Best Use Cases
Choose Grok 3 Mini when:
- • You need longer outputs (up to 131,072 tokens)
- • You're already using xAI's API ecosystem
- • You're running high-volume, latency-sensitive workloads
Choose Grok Code Fast 1 when:
- • Budget is a primary concern
- • You need a larger context window (256,000 tokens)
- • You're already using xAI's API ecosystem
Pros and Caveats at a Glance
Grok 3 Mini
- • Input pricing: $0.30/M tokens
- • Output pricing: $0.50/M tokens
- • Context window: 128,000 tokens
- • Max output: 131,072 tokens
Watch out for
- • Higher input cost than Grok Code Fast 1
- • Smaller context window than Grok Code Fast 1
Grok Code Fast 1
- • Input pricing: $0.20/M tokens
- • Output pricing: $1.50/M tokens
- • Context window: 256,000 tokens
- • Max output: 32,768 tokens
Watch out for
- • Higher output cost than Grok 3 Mini
Try Different Scenarios
Use the calculator below to see how costs change with different usage patterns
Grok 3 Mini (xAI)
Grok Code Fast 1 (xAI)
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Sign Up for xAI →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, Grok 3 Mini or Grok Code Fast 1?▼
What is the context window difference between Grok 3 Mini and Grok Code Fast 1?▼
Which model is better for AI Agent / Agentic Workflows?▼
Which model has better overall pricing for heavy usage?▼
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