LLM APIs and model providers · ranked 04
Groq
Fast inference API for open models.
Best for Low-latency calls to open models
Groq offers an API for running open models on its inference hardware, pitched at low latency. Use it when the product needs quick responses and an open model is good enough. Free credits and paid rates change — check site.
Best use cases
- Snappy chat or classification
- Open models through one fast API
- Prototypes that outgrow a slow free tier elsewhere
Pros
- + Speed is the reason to pick it
- + An OpenAI-compatible style API is part of the draw
- + Open models keep you off a single lab's flagship
Cons
- − The model menu is not the same as OpenAI or Anthropic flagships
- − Rates and free credits: check site
Pricing
Usage-based, often with introductory credits. Current rates: check site.
Alternatives
LLM APIs and model providers
7.9
OpenRouter
One API key for many models, including labs and open weights.
Best for Switching models without switching SDKs
LLM APIs and model providers
7.6
Gemini API
Google's Gemini models, with a free tier that moves.
Best for A capable model API with a free starting quota
LLM APIs and model providers
6.7
Mistral
European model lab with an API and open-weight releases.
Best for A European model API, or open weights you can host