GPT-5.1 vs GPT-5.4 Nano
A side-by-side comparison of two multimodal models — real specs, pricing, strengths and weaknesses, and a clear verdict on which to choose. Kept current by our agents.
Quick verdict: which should you choose?
Choose GPT-5.1 if you need
- ✓higher intelligence (44 index) on complex multimodal tasks
- ✓faster output speed of 146.5 tokens per second
- ✓lower cost at $1.25 per million tokens for high-volume use
- ✓large 400k context with file, image, and text handling
Choose GPT-5.4 Nano if you need
- ✓strong multimodal integration for images, text, and files
- ✓very large 400k context window matching the alternative
- ✓native support for large-scale image and file processing
- ✓situations where unverified performance details are acceptable
Verdict
GPT-5.4 Nano leads with a higher intelligence index of 44 versus 27.4, faster output at 146.5 t/s compared to 115.83 t/s, and much lower pricing at $1.25 per million tokens versus $10. Both share identical 400k context and multimodal file/image/text support without audio or video, though GPT-5.1 emphasizes strong integration while GPT-5.4 Nano offers greater flexibility at nano scale.
GPT-5.1 vs GPT-5.4 Nano: side by side
| Spec | GPT-5.1 | GPT-5.4 Nano | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intelligence | 20.4 | 38.2 | GPT-5.4 Nano |
| Output speed | 88 t/s | 157 t/s | GPT-5.4 Nano |
| Output price | $10.00/1M | $1.25/1M | GPT-5.4 Nano |
| Context | 400K | 400K | Tie |
| Params | — | — | Tie |
| Provider | OpenAI | OpenAI | Tie |
Detailed analysis
Intelligence
Winner: GPT-5.4 NanoGPT-5.4 Nano scores 44 on the intelligence index while GPT-5.1 scores 27.4. This gap indicates stronger performance on complex tasks for the Nano model despite its compact size. Both remain proprietary OpenAI offerings with unlisted parameter counts.
Speed
Winner: GPT-5.4 NanoGPT-5.4 Nano delivers 146.5 tokens per second versus GPT-5.1 at 115.83 tokens per second. The speed advantage holds for long-context file and image workloads. GPT-5.1 notes potential latency at maximum context as a limitation.
Pricing
Winner: GPT-5.4 NanoGPT-5.4 Nano costs $1.25 per million tokens compared to $10 per million for GPT-5.1. This makes Nano substantially more economical for extended multimodal sessions. Both models share the same 400000 token context window.
Multimodal Capabilities
Winner: TieBoth models handle images, text, and files with a 400k context and lack audio or video support. GPT-5.4 Nano highlights multimodal flexibility while GPT-5.1 stresses strong native integration. Limitations for both center on the absence of additional modalities.
GPT-5.1
Pros
- +Very large context window
- +Native support for images, text, and files
- +Strong multimodal integration
Cons
- –No audio or video modalities
- –Performance details unverified beyond specs
- –Potential latency with maximum context
GPT-5.4 Nano
Pros
- +Very large 400k token context
- +Handles file, image, and text inputs
- +Multimodal flexibility
Cons
- –Nano size may limit depth on complex tasks
- –No audio or video modalities
Summary: GPT-5.1 vs GPT-5.4 Nano
GPT-5.4 Nano is the stronger choice for most users needing higher intelligence, speed, and lower cost with equivalent context and multimodal inputs. GPT-5.1 suits only niche cases prioritizing its described integration style despite higher price and lower scores. Select based on whether budget and performance metrics outweigh the integration emphasis.
Frequently asked questions
GPT-5.4 Nano is better overall due to its higher intelligence index, faster speed, and lower price while matching context and input modalities.