What this estimates
Use monthly input and output token volume to compare rough API spend across example model classes. It is best for early budgeting, not final vendor pricing.
API Cost Estimator
Estimate monthly AI API costs
Compare rough monthly API spend from input and output token volume. Pricing examples are shown in USD and should be checked against each provider before purchasing.
ModelInput / 1MOutput / 1MTotal
GPT-style small model$0.15$0.60$2.70
GPT-style flagship model$2.50$10.00$45.00
Claude-style efficient model$0.80$4.00$16.00
Claude-style flagship model$3.00$15.00$60.00
Before you buy
Always check current provider pricing, caching rules, batch discounts, taxes, and currency conversion before committing to a production budget.
Useful inputs
Estimate requests per month, average prompt size, and average response size. Separate input and output tokens because providers often price them differently.
Why input and output tokens are separate
Many API providers charge different rates for prompt tokens and response tokens. A chat app, content workflow, or automation can look affordable until long responses increase output volume. Estimating both sides separately gives a more useful monthly budget.