GPT-4.1 vs GPT-4.5: OpenAI Models Compared

OpenAI’s GPT-4.1 and GPT-4.5 are cutting-edge AI models with unique strengths.

They cater to different needs, from coding to conversational applications.

This article explores their features, costs, and best use cases.

Knowing their differences aids in selecting the ideal model.

Let’s examine what distinguishes GPT-4.1 from GPT-4.5.

Release and Availability

GPT-4.1 vs GPT-4.5

GPT-4.5 Availability

GPT-4.5 is currently a research preview for Pro users and developers.

It will soon be available to Plus, Team, and Enterprise subscribers.

This model targets chat and conversational AI tasks.

GPT-4.1 Availability

GPT-4.1 is offered solely through OpenAI’s API platform.

It’s built for developers and unavailable in the ChatGPT interface.

The focus is on coding and handling large-context projects.

Key Features Comparison

GPT-4.5 Features

GPT-4.5 shines in chat with a 128,000-token context window.

It boasts enhanced emotional intelligence and fewer hallucinations.

A wider knowledge base improves its conversational quality.

It’s excellent for writing, brainstorming, and educational purposes.

GPT-4.1 Features

GPT-4.1 features an impressive 1-million-token context window.

It offers variants: GPT-4.1, mini, and nano for diverse needs.

Strengths include coding, instruction-following, and long-context work.

It suits developers creating AI agents or reviewing large codebases.

Performance and Benchmarks

GPT-4.5 Performance

GPT-4.5 achieves a 62.5% score on conversational SimpleQA benchmarks.

It cuts hallucinations to 37.1%, boosting response reliability.

On academic GPQA tests, it scores a strong 71.4%.

Its high compute needs make it powerful yet resource-intensive.

GPT-4.1 Performance

GPT-4.1 performs well in coding, with 52%–54.6% on SWE-bench.

It scores 72% accuracy in video understanding on Video-MME.

Accuracy falls from 84% to 50% with 1-million-token inputs.

The mini variant offers an 83% cost reduction for efficiency.

Cost and Efficiency

GPT-4.5 Costs

GPT-4.5’s compute demands drive up its operational costs.

It’s a specialized tool, not a GPT-4o replacement.

Pro users get early access, with wider rollout pending.

GPT-4.1 Costs

GPT-4.1 is 26% cheaper than GPT-4o for typical queries.

The mini version slashes costs by 83%, appealing to budget users.

Pricing is $2 input and $8 output per million tokens for GPT-4.1.

GPT-4.1 nano costs just $0.10 input and $0.40 output.

Ideal Use Cases

When to Use GPT-4.5

  • GPT-4.5 is ideal for chatbots, writing, and customer service.
  • Its emotional intelligence improves engagement with users.
  • It’s well-suited for content creation and learning tools.

When to Use GPT-4.1

  • GPT-4.1 is perfect for coding, debugging, and AI agent creation.
  • Its vast context window handles lengthy document analysis.
  • It fits enterprise apps needing scalable, cost-effective solutions.

Limitations and Challenges

GPT-4.5 Limitations

GPT-4.5 lacks multimodal capabilities like voice or video.

Its high compute cost may deter budget-limited users.

It’s optimized for chat, not coding-intensive tasks.

GPT-4.1 Limitations

Accuracy declines with massive inputs, requiring precise prompts.

API-only access limits it to developers with technical skills.

It tends to give literal responses unless guided clearly.

Future Prospects

GPT-4.5 might add multimodal features in upcoming updates.

GPT-4.1 could expand access or improve efficiency further.

Both will influence AI’s growth in automation and creativity.

OpenAI’s ongoing work promises more advancements ahead.

Conclusion

GPT-4.5 excels in chat and general tasks with natural replies.

GPT-4.1 stands out in coding and large-context developer work.

Pick GPT-4.5 for chat needs and GPT-4.1 for coding projects.

Each model advances AI in its specialized field.

Author

Allen

Allen is a tech expert focused on simplifying complex technology for everyday users. With expertise in computer hardware, networking, and software, he offers practical advice and detailed guides. His clear communication makes him a valuable resource for both tech enthusiasts and novices.

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