Grok Code Fast 1 vs Magistral Small
Grok Code Fast 1 vs Magistral Small: Grok Code Fast 1 is cheaper for input-heavy usage ($0.20/M vs $0.50/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 Code Fast 1
Magistral Small
Cost Differences
Magistral Small costs more than Grok Code Fast 1
Quick Recommendation
Winner for direct API pricing: Grok Code Fast 1. At the default workload, Grok Code Fast 1 saves about $0.90/month ($10.95/year) versus Magistral Small.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Grok Code Fast 1 | Magistral Small |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | xAI | Mistral AI |
| Input Price | $0.20/1M tokens | $0.50/1M tokens |
| Output Price | $1.50/1M tokens | $1.50/1M tokens |
| Context Window | 256,000 tokens | 128,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 32,768 tokens | 16,384 tokens |
| Category | standard | reasoning |
| Capabilities | textcodereasoning | textreasoning |
| Release Date | 2/1/2026 | 12/15/2025 |
Grok Code Fast 1 vs Magistral Small: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between Grok Code Fast 1 and Magistral Small depends on your priorities: cost efficiency, context length, or raw capability. Grok Code Fast 1 is the more affordable option at $0.20/1M input tokens — 60% cheaper than Magistral Small. Meanwhile, Grok Code Fast 1 offers a significantly larger context window at 256,000 tokens vs 128,000 for Magistral Small.
These models come from different providers — xAI and Mistral AI — which means different API ecosystems, SDKs, rate limits, and terms of service. If you're already integrated with xAI, switching to Mistral AIinvolves migration effort beyond just pricing. Factor in your existing infrastructure when deciding.
These models target different tiers: Grok Code Fast 1 is a standard model while Magistral Small is reasoning. This means they're optimized for different workloads. Magistral Small targets more demanding workloads, while Grok Code Fast 1 provides a cost-effective option for everyday tasks.
Output costs matter too. Grok Code Fast 1 charges $1.50/1M output tokens vs $1.50 for Magistral Small.
Best Use Cases
Choose Grok Code Fast 1 when:
- • Budget is a primary concern
- • You need a larger context window (256,000 tokens)
- • You need more capabilities (code)
- • You need longer outputs (up to 32,768 tokens)
- • You're already using xAI's API ecosystem
Choose Magistral Small when:
- • You're already using Mistral AI's API ecosystem
Pros and Caveats at a Glance
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
- • Trade-offs are minor in this matchup.
Magistral Small
- • Input pricing: $0.50/M tokens
- • Output pricing: $1.50/M tokens
- • Context window: 128,000 tokens
- • Max output: 16,384 tokens
Watch out for
- • Higher input cost than Grok Code Fast 1
- • Smaller context window than Grok Code Fast 1
Try Different Scenarios
Use the calculator below to see how costs change with different usage patterns
Grok Code Fast 1 (xAI)
Magistral Small (Mistral AI)
Start using Grok Code Fast 1 today
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Sign Up for Mistral AI →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, Grok Code Fast 1 or Magistral Small?▼
What is the context window difference between Grok Code Fast 1 and Magistral Small?▼
Which model is better for AI Chatbot?▼
Which model has better overall pricing for heavy usage?▼
Where can I compare xAI and Mistral AI API pricing beyond this model matchup?▼
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