How much does it really cost to use AI models for coding?
A developer detailed their experience using open-weight AI models for a coding project, incurring a cost of only $5 for over 400 million tokens via a subscription service. This contrasts sharply with the estimated $138.70 per month if using traditional inference providers like OpenRouter, and a staggering $690.77 per month for a model like GPT-5.4. The analysis raises questions about the sustainability of current AI subscription models and whether companies are subsidizing usage to gain market share. AI
IMPACT Highlights the significant cost savings and potential economic models behind AI inference, impacting developer choices and company strategies.