How to Choose the Best AI Tool
Author: SparkToAI
Published: October 8, 2025
The One That Suits You Is the Best
Define Your Use Case
Do you need a general-purpose conversational AI or a programming-focused assistant? For the former, you can explore major model APIs, while for the latter, you should look into AI programming tools.
Understand the Pricing Model
- Large AI Model APIs: Typically billed based on usage (tokens). Estimate your daily usage frequency and text processing volume, and pay attention to the differences in pricing for input and output.
- AI Programming Tools: Mostly operate on a subscription model, suitable for developers who require continuous, high-frequency usage.
Free Credits and Trials
Many AI tools offer free trial credits or periods to attract users. Make the most of these free opportunities to test whether the AI tool meets your development needs before committing to a paid plan.
Large AI Model API Pricing
(As of October 2025, token-based billing)
| Large AI Model | Input Price (USD/million tokens) | Output Price (USD/million tokens) |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-5 Pro | $15.00 | $120.00 |
| Gemini 2.5 Pro | $1.25 - $2.50 | $10.00 - $15.00 |
| Grok-4 | $3.00 | $15.00 |
| DeepSeek | $0.28 | $0.42 |
AI Programming Tool Pricing
(As of October 2025, primarily subscription-based)
| AI Programming Tool | Reference Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| GitHub Copilot | Pro: $10 / month Pro+: $39 / month |
| Claude Code | Pro: $17 / month |
| Cursor | Pro: $20 / month Pro+: $60 / month |
| Qoder | Pro: $20 / month Pro+: $60 / month |
| TRAE | Pro: $10 / month |
| Kiro | Pro: $20 / month Pro+: $40 / month |
Important Note: The above prices are for reference only. Pricing and promotional policies for AI programming tools, in particular, change frequently.