Looking for an honest OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano vs OpenAI GPT-4.5 comparison in 2026? We scored both ai language models on the same six-dimension framework — performance, battery, display, camera, design and value — using identical methodology, so the numbers below are directly comparable. In our overall scoring the OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano comes out ahead 69/100 to 51/100 — a 18-point gap. The widest gap is in display, where the OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano pulls noticeably ahead.
OpenAI
Prices may vary · We may earn a commission on purchases. Learn more
OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano clearly outperforms the OpenAI GPT-4.5 in the ai language models category, especially in value, scoring 69 vs 51. If you want the better overall ai language models, OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano is the recommended choice.
Scores are relative within the ai language modelscategory. Percentages show each dimension's weight in the overall score. A difference of less than 0.5 points is considered a tie.
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Lower cost = better value. Free = open-source self-hosted.
| Metric | GPT-4.1 nano | OpenAI GPT-4.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Input (Prompt) | ✓$0.10/1M | $75.00/1M |
| Output (Completion) | ✓$0.40/1M | $150.00/1M |
| Open Source | Proprietary | Proprietary |
Context Window (tokens)
| Metric | GPT-4.1 nano | OpenAI GPT-4.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Output | ✓32,768 tok | 16,384 tok |
| Speed | ✓350 tok/s | 50 tok/s |
| Time to First Token | ✓150ms | 900ms |
| Languages | 50+ | 50+ |
Higher is better. Industry-standard AI evaluation benchmarks.
GPT-4.1 nano
OpenAI GPT-4.5
GPT-4.1 nano
OpenAI GPT-4.5
GPT-4.1 nano
OpenAI GPT-4.5
GPT-4.1 nano
OpenAI GPT-4.5
GPT-4.1 nano
OpenAI GPT-4.5
| Feature | GPT-4.1 nano | OpenAI GPT-4.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning / Chain-of-Thought | ✕ | ✕ |
| Vision (Image Input) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Input | ✕ | ✕ |
| Video Input | ✕ | ✕ |
| Image/Audio Output | ✕ | ✕ |
| Function Calling / Tools | ✓ | ✓ |
| JSON Mode | ✓ | ✓ |
| Real-time Web Access | ✕ | ✕ |
| Fine-tuning Support | ✓ | ✕ |
| Batch API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Streaming | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open Source | ✕ | ✕ |
| Field | GPT-4.1 nano | OpenAI GPT-4.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | OpenAI | OpenAI |
| Knowledge Cutoff | 2025-01 | 2024-09 |
| Best For | ultra cheapclassificationroutingsimple tasks | creative writingemotional intelligenceconversationnuanced tasks |
Buy OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano if…
Buy the OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano if you want the best overall value in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
Buy OpenAI GPT-4.5 if…
The OpenAI GPT-4.5 is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano clearly outperforms the OpenAI GPT-4.5 in the ai language models category, especially in value, scoring 69 vs 51. If you want the better overall ai language models, OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano is the recommended choice.
Yes, OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano scores higher overall (75 vs 75).
Check the latest prices using the buy links above.
Buy the OpenAI GPT-4.1 nano if you want the best overall value in this comparison. It scores higher overall and is the recommended choice for most buyers.
The OpenAI GPT-4.5 is worth considering if you prefer its specific design, ecosystem, or brand — though it scores lower overall in our comparison.
Reviewed by VersusMatrix Editorial Team
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Methodology: AI-powered analysis of technical specifications from manufacturer data. Scores are calculated by comparing products across multiple dimensions and normalized relative to the full category database. Our editorial process is independent and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.