Grok Code Fast 1 vs o4-mini Deep Research
Grok Code Fast 1 vs o4-mini Deep Research: Grok Code Fast 1 is cheaper for input-heavy usage ($0.20/M vs $2.00/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
o4-mini Deep Research
Cost Differences
o4-mini Deep Research 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 $15.15/month ($184.325/year) versus o4-mini Deep Research.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Grok Code Fast 1 | o4-mini Deep Research |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | xAI | OpenAI |
| Input Price | $0.20/1M tokens | $2.00/1M tokens |
| Output Price | $1.50/1M tokens | $8.00/1M tokens |
| Context Window | 256,000 tokens | 200,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 32,768 tokens | 32,768 tokens |
| Category | standard | reasoning |
| Capabilities | textcodereasoning | textreasoningcode |
| Release Date | 2/1/2026 | 6/26/2025 |
Grok Code Fast 1 vs o4-mini Deep Research: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between Grok Code Fast 1 and o4-mini Deep Research 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 — 90% cheaper than o4-mini Deep Research. Meanwhile, Grok Code Fast 1 offers a significantly larger context window at 256,000 tokens vs 200,000 for o4-mini Deep Research.
These models come from different providers — xAI and OpenAI — which means different API ecosystems, SDKs, rate limits, and terms of service. If you're already integrated with xAI, switching to OpenAIinvolves 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 o4-mini Deep Research is reasoning. This means they're optimized for different workloads. o4-mini Deep Research 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 $8.00 for o4-mini Deep Research. For generation-heavy workloads (content creation, code generation, summarization), output pricing often dominates your bill. Grok Code Fast 1 has the edge here at $1.50/1M output tokens.
Best Use Cases
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
Choose o4-mini Deep Research when:
- • You're already using OpenAI'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.
o4-mini Deep Research
- • Input pricing: $2.00/M tokens
- • Output pricing: $8.00/M tokens
- • Context window: 200,000 tokens
- • Max output: 32,768 tokens
Watch out for
- • Higher input cost than Grok Code Fast 1
- • Higher output 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)
o4-mini Deep Research (OpenAI)
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Sign Up for OpenAI →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, Grok Code Fast 1 or o4-mini Deep Research?▼
What is the context window difference between Grok Code Fast 1 and o4-mini Deep Research?▼
Which model is better for AI Agent / Agentic Workflows?▼
Which model has better overall pricing for heavy usage?▼
Where can I compare xAI and OpenAI API pricing beyond this model matchup?▼
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