What is a Token? How Is It Calculated?

Understanding Tokens

Tokens are used to calculate the cost of AI model usage. Each AI provider has its own method for defining and calculating tokens. Below is a summary for each provider.

OpenAI

• Definition: Tokens can be thought of as pieces of words. They are the units used by OpenAI to process text. One token generally corresponds to around four characters of English text or about three-fourths of a word.
• Calculation: The number of tokens is calculated by the length of the input and output text. For example, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" contains 11 tokens.
• Example: 1,500 words is roughly equivalent to 2,048 tokens.
• Resources:
  • OpenAI Tokens

Anthropic (Claude)

• Definition: Similar to OpenAI, tokens in Anthropic are the units of text processed by their models. Each token is a part of a word, phrase, or symbol.
• Calculation: Tokens are counted for both the input and the generated output. The length of the input prompt and the response determines the total token count.
• Resources:
  • Anthropic Tokens

Google Gemini

• Definition: Tokens in the Google Gemini API are units of text used for processing by the AI model.
• Calculation: Like other providers, the token count includes both input and output text. The length and complexity of the text determine the number of tokens.
• Resources:
  • Google Gemini Tokens

OpenRouter

• Definition and Calculation: OpenRouter's token calculation depends on the specific AI model being used. Generally, it follows the same principles as other providers, where tokens are counted based on the length of input and output text.

Straico

• Definition and Calculation: Straico's coin calculation depends on the specific AI model being used. Generally, it follows the same principles as other providers, where tokens are counted based on the length of input and output text.

Key Points

• Prompt Tokens: Tokens that you input into the model.
• Completion Tokens: Tokens generated by the model in response to your input.
• Differences Across Providers: While the basic concept of tokens is similar, the specific calculation and cost can vary depending on the provider and the model being used.

Understanding tokens and their calculation is crucial for managing usage and costs effectively when using AI models. For detailed information, refer to the links provided above for each AI provider. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at support@aiassistworks.com.