Google: Gemma 4 31B (free) vs OpenAI: GPT-5.1
Head-to-head API cost, context, and performance comparison. Synced at 11:29:00 PM.
Executive Summary
When evaluating Google: Gemma 4 31B (free) against OpenAI: GPT-5.1, the pricing structure is a key differentiator. Google: Gemma 4 31B (free) is approximately 100% more cost-effective per 1 million tokens overall. In fact, it is currently available for free inference, though developers should be mindful of potential rate limits or stability changes common with zero-cost or preview tiers.
However, when looking at raw reasoning capabilities, OpenAI: GPT-5.1 leads with a statistical ELO score of 1439. For tasks involving complex logic, coding, or instruction-following, developers might prefer OpenAI: GPT-5.1, provided their budget allows for the API burn rate.
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Raw Technical comparison
Verdict
If you are looking for pure performance and capability, Tie is statistically superior. However, if API burn rate is the primary concern, Google: Gemma 4 31B (free) wins out aggressively in pricing.
People Also Ask
Is Google: Gemma 4 31B (free) cheaper than OpenAI: GPT-5.1?
Yes. Google: Gemma 4 31B (free) is cheaper for both input and output generation compared to OpenAI: GPT-5.1. Exploring alternatives often yields cost reductions.
Which model has the larger context window?
The OpenAI: GPT-5.1 model has the advantage in memory, offering a massive 400,000 token limit for document ingestion.