Updated 2025-02-23
OpenAI API
OpenAI's developer API. Token-based pricing for GPT-4o, embeddings, and more. Build custom apps and integrations.
Entry:Per token
Data:Partial
Best for:Custom workflows, developers
Use cases
Custom apps and integrations
Chatbots and assistants
Embeddings and RAG
Structured output
Batch processing
Fine-tuning (select models)
Pricing model
Pay-per-token. No subscription. Input and output priced separately. Batch API for discounts. Scale tier for high volume.
GPT-4o
$5 in / $20 out per 1M tokens
Flagship; fast
GPT-4 Turbo
$10 in / $30 out per 1M tokens
128K context
GPT-4o mini
Lower
Cost-effective for high volume
Embeddings
Per 1M tokens
For search, RAG
Batch API
Discounted
Non-time-sensitive
Scale tier
Fixed daily rates
High-volume users
Business fit
Pros
- No per-user subscription; pay for usage
- Full control over integration
- Batch and scale tiers for cost control
- Wide ecosystem and tooling
- Same models as ChatGPT
Cons
- You build and maintain integration
- Token costs can spike with volume
- No built-in UI; developer effort required
- Vendor lock-in to OpenAI
When it makes sense: Good for teams with dev capacity who need custom workflows. Use when ChatGPT's UI or plan limits don't fit. Estimate volume with our Cost Calculator.
Data handling
API data: not used for training by default. Check terms. Enterprise options for stricter controls.
GDPR / compliance: Enterprise DPA available. Check platform terms.
Data sovereignty: Enterprise data residency options.