Grok 2 (Dec '24) from xAI offers exceptional speed and a large context window, but its intelligence scores are below average for its class, and its pricing structure is notably high.
Grok 2 (Dec '24), developed by xAI, emerges as a distinctive model in the rapidly evolving landscape of large language models. Positioned as a high-throughput solution, its primary appeal lies in its remarkable output speed and a substantial 131k token context window, making it adept at processing and generating extensive content quickly. This model is particularly suited for applications where raw processing power and rapid content delivery are paramount, rather than intricate logical deduction or nuanced understanding.
However, an essential consideration for Grok 2 is its performance on intelligence benchmarks. Scoring 25 on the Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index, it falls below the average of 33 for comparable non-reasoning models. This places it outside the top tier for tasks demanding complex reasoning, problem-solving, or deep analytical capabilities. Users should align their expectations and use cases accordingly, leveraging Grok 2 for its generative prowess rather than its cognitive depth.
The pricing structure for Grok 2 is another critical factor. With an input token price of $2.00 per 1M tokens and an output token price of $10.00 per 1M tokens, it stands out as one of the more expensive options in its category. This high cost, especially for output tokens, means that applications requiring extensive generation will incur significant expenses. The blended price, calculated at a 3:1 input-to-output ratio, averages $4.00 per 1M tokens, underscoring its premium cost profile.
In summary, Grok 2 (Dec '24) carves out a niche for itself as a powerful, fast, and large-context model from xAI. It excels in scenarios demanding rapid content generation and the handling of vast amounts of information, provided the tasks do not necessitate advanced reasoning. Its high cost and moderate intelligence score are key trade-offs that prospective users must weigh against its impressive speed and context capabilities.
25 (#21 / 30 / 30)
82 tokens/s
$2.00 per 1M tokens
$10.00 per 1M tokens
N/A
0.51 seconds
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Owner | xAI |
| License | Open |
| Context Window | 131k tokens |
| Model Type | Non-Reasoning |
| Intelligence Index | 25 (Below Average) |
| Output Speed | 82 tokens/s (Exceptional) |
| Latency (TTFT) | 0.51 seconds |
| Input Price | $2.00 / 1M tokens |
| Output Price | $10.00 / 1M tokens |
| Blended Price (3:1) | $4.00 / 1M tokens |
| API Provider | x.ai |
| Release Date | December 2024 |
As of our analysis, x.ai is the primary API provider for Grok 2 (Dec '24). This direct access ensures users can leverage the model's unique capabilities, particularly its speed and large context window, without intermediary layers.
When considering Grok 2, the choice of provider is straightforward, but the decision to use Grok 2 itself hinges on aligning its strengths with your project's priorities, especially given its distinct cost and intelligence profile.
| Priority | Pick | Why | Tradeoff to accept |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed & Throughput | x.ai | Direct access to Grok 2's exceptional 82 tokens/s output speed. | High cost per token, especially for output. |
| Large Context Processing | x.ai | Optimized for leveraging the 131k token context window efficiently. | Expensive input tokens for very long prompts. |
| Cost Efficiency | N/A (Consider Alternatives) | Grok 2 is a premium-priced model; cost-conscious projects should explore other options. | Sacrifice Grok 2's speed and context for lower operational costs. |
| Intelligence & Reasoning | N/A (Consider Alternatives) | Grok 2 is a non-reasoning model with below-average intelligence scores. | Opt for models with higher intelligence benchmarks for complex tasks. |
| Open License Access | x.ai | Provides access to an 'open' licensed model from xAI. | Still an API-based service, not self-hostable. |
Note: This analysis is based on Grok 2 (Dec '24) availability and benchmarks at the time of review, with x.ai identified as the sole API provider.
Understanding Grok 2's performance in real-world scenarios requires a close look at its speed, context handling, and especially its pricing. While its high output speed is a significant advantage, the cost per token can quickly accumulate, making careful planning essential for cost-effective deployment.
Below are several common LLM use cases, illustrating the estimated costs and implications when utilizing Grok 2 (Dec '24) via x.ai.
| Scenario | Input | Output | What it represents | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summarizing Long Documents | 100k tokens | 500 tokens | High context input, concise output. Leverages large context window. | $0.205 |
| Generating Short Social Media Posts | 500 tokens | 100 tokens | Low context, low output, high volume potential. Speed is key. | $0.002 |
| Brainstorming Ideas (Non-Reasoning) | 2k tokens | 2k tokens | Balanced input/output, creative generation without complex logic. | $0.024 |
| Real-time Chat Response | 100 tokens | 50 tokens | Low latency, high speed, short conversational turns. | $0.0007 |
| Simple Code Snippet Generation | 5k tokens | 1k tokens | Medium context, moderate output for straightforward coding tasks. | $0.02 |
| Content Rephrasing (Paragraph) | 300 tokens | 300 tokens | Short input, similar length output. Focus on speed of rephrasing. | $0.0036 |
Grok 2's cost structure means that while individual short interactions might seem inexpensive, high-volume or output-heavy applications will quickly see costs escalate. Its strength lies in scenarios where the value of rapid, large-context processing outweighs the premium token pricing, particularly for tasks that do not demand advanced reasoning.
To maximize the value and manage the costs associated with Grok 2 (Dec '24), a strategic approach is crucial. Given its high token prices, especially for output, optimizing usage patterns can lead to significant savings without compromising on its core strengths.
Given Grok 2's $2.00 per 1M input tokens, keeping prompts concise and to the point is essential. Avoid unnecessary verbosity in your instructions or examples. Leverage its large context window only when absolutely necessary for the task, as every input token contributes to the overall cost.
With an output token price of $10.00 per 1M tokens, Grok 2 is particularly expensive for generating long responses. Design your prompts to explicitly request the shortest possible output that still fulfills the task requirements. Avoid open-ended generation where the model might produce excessive text.
Grok 2's exceptional output speed of 82 tokens/s is its standout feature. For tasks that require rapid processing of many independent requests, its speed can translate into higher throughput and faster completion times. Focus on batching requests where possible to fully utilize this capability.
Grok 2 is best suited for non-reasoning tasks where its speed and context window are beneficial, and where its intelligence score is not a limiting factor. Avoid using it for complex analytical problems or tasks requiring deep understanding, as more cost-effective and intelligent models exist for those purposes.
Grok 2 (Dec '24) is a large language model developed by xAI. It is characterized by its exceptionally high output speed, a large 131k token context window, and an 'open' license. It is classified as a non-reasoning model, meaning it excels at generation and processing rather than complex logical inference.
Grok 2 is owned and developed by xAI, an artificial intelligence company founded by Elon Musk.
Its primary strengths include an impressive output speed of 82 tokens per second, a very large context window of 131k tokens, and its ability to handle high-volume content generation tasks efficiently. It is well-suited for applications where rapid throughput is critical.
Grok 2's main weaknesses are its below-average intelligence score (25 on the Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index) and its high pricing structure, particularly for output tokens ($10.00 per 1M tokens). It is not recommended for tasks requiring complex reasoning or for budget-sensitive projects.
Grok 2 is considered expensive compared to many other models. Its input token price of $2.00 per 1M tokens and output token price of $10.00 per 1M tokens are significantly above average for its class, leading to a blended price of $4.00 per 1M tokens (3:1 ratio).
Grok 2 features a substantial context window of 131,000 tokens, allowing it to process and generate content based on very long inputs.
No, Grok 2 is classified as a non-reasoning model and scores below average in intelligence benchmarks. It is not suitable for tasks that require complex logical inference, problem-solving, or deep analytical capabilities.
Based on our analysis, Grok 2 (Dec '24) is available through the x.ai API, which is its primary provider for external access.