GPT-5 vs GPT-5-mini Comparison
Overview
OpenAI launched GPT-5 on August 7, 2025, as its flagship multimodal large language model, alongside GPT-5-mini and GPT-5-nano. These models unify advanced reasoning, multimodal input, and task execution into a single adaptive system with automatic routing between fast and thinking modes.
Key Differences
| Feature | GPT-5 | GPT-5-mini |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | August 7, 2025 | August 7, 2025 |
| Context Window | 400,000 tokens (API) | 400,000 tokens (API) |
| Multimodal | Text, image, audio, video | Text and image |
| Knowledge Cutoff | September 30, 2024 | May 30, 2024 |
| API Pricing (Input) | $1.25 per million tokens | $0.25 per million tokens |
| API Pricing (Output) | $10.00 per million tokens | $2.00 per million tokens |
| Execution Modes | Fast, Thinking, Pro (for subscribers) | Fast and Thinking (automatic) |
| Primary Use Cases | Complex reasoning, agentic workflows, multi-step tasks | Everyday tasks, quick responses, high-volume processing |
| Hallucination Rate | 45% fewer factual errors than GPT-4o | Balanced performance for lighter reasoning |
| Availability | All ChatGPT users (free + paid) | All ChatGPT users (free + paid) |
Core Capabilities
GPT-5
- Agentic Behavior: Breaks down complex tasks, uses tools, searches web, executes code autonomously
- Real Router: Automatically selects appropriate model variant based on query complexity
- Enhanced Safety: “Safe completions” approach for potentially harmful queries
- State-of-the-art Coding: Increased reliability and accuracy in programming tasks
- Advanced Writing: Greater control over tone and style
GPT-5-mini
- Cost-Efficient: 5× cheaper than GPT-5 for both input and output
- Optimized for Speed: Faster responses for well-defined prompts
- Full Tool Integration: Supports “allowed tools” and “preamble” features
- Strong Benchmarks: Excellent performance in mathematics, finance, marketing, programming
- Ideal for Volume: Perfect for instant summaries, quick data extraction, high-volume backfills
When to Choose Which
Choose GPT-5 for:
- Complex multi-step reasoning tasks
- Agentic workflows requiring autonomous tool use
- Maximum accuracy and minimal hallucinations
- Latest knowledge (September 2024 cutoff)
- Advanced multimodal processing (audio, video)
Choose GPT-5-mini for:
- Cost-sensitive applications
- High-volume API calls
- Quick response requirements
- Everyday tasks and personal use
- Small business applications
- Routine workflows with well-defined prompts
Last updated: 2025-11-23