How do I estimate AI API costs for my project?

Define your features (chat, search, analysis, etc.), estimate daily request volume and token usage per request, then use the AI Stack Builder to model costs across different provider combinations. Most projects need 2-3 models for different tasks.

What is the cheapest way to build an AI-powered app?

Use tiered model routing: Gemini Flash for simple tasks ($0.10/$0.40), GPT-5 mini for complex reasoning ($0.25/$2), and premium models only for critical tasks. This approach typically costs 60-80% less than using a single premium model for everything.

How much does it cost to run an AI chatbot?

A chatbot handling 1000 conversations/day with 500 tokens each costs $15-150/month depending on the model. Gemini Flash: ~$15/month. GPT-5 mini: ~$75/month. Claude Sonnet: ~$225/month. Use the Stack Builder to model your specific volume.

AI Stack Builder — Build Your Optimal Multi-Model AI Stack

Step 1 of 4

What are you building?

Select your primary use case. We'll recommend the optimal models for each part of your stack.

Step 2 of 4

What matters most?

This determines which models we prioritize in your stack.

Step 3 of 4

What's your monthly volume?

Approximate number of API requests per month.

100,000

requests / month

← Change volume

Your Optimal AI Stack

Estimated Monthly Cost

$0.00

/month at 100,000 requests

Want the full breakdown?

APIpulse compares 67 models across 10 providers with interactive calculators.

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AI Stack Builder

What are you building?

What matters most?

What's your monthly volume?

Your Optimal AI Stack

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