What is the difference between GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

GPT-4.5 is developed by OpenAI while Laguna XS 2.1 (free) is developed by Poolside. GPT-4.5 has a 128K token context window vs Laguna XS 2.1 (free)'s 262K. You can compare their actual outputs across 2 challenges on Rival to see how they differ in practice.

Which is better, GPT-4.5 or Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

It depends on your use case. GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) each have strengths in different areas. Rival lets you compare their real outputs side-by-side across 2 challenges so you can judge which fits your needs best.

How much does GPT-4.5 cost compared to Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

GPT-4.5 costs $75/M input tokens and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) costs $0/M input tokens. Laguna XS 2.1 (free) is $75.00/M cheaper per input. Check their side-by-side outputs on Rival to see if the price difference is justified by quality.

How can I compare GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) on Rival?

This page shows a side-by-side comparison of GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) across shared challenges. You can vote on which model produced the better output in a blind duel. Browsing and voting are free. No account is needed to look; signing in only saves your votes and likes.

Updated Jul 2026

GPT-4.5vsLaguna XS 2.1 (free)

Laguna XS 2.1 (free) is cheaper than GPT-4.5 at $0/M vs $75/M input tokens.

GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) compared across 2 shared prompts
Spec	GPT-4.5	Laguna XS 2.1 (free)
Input price	$75/M tokens	Free
Output price	$150/M tokens	Free
Context window	128K tokens	262K tokens
Free API (OpenRouter)	No	Yes (1 provider)
Released	Feb 2025	Jul 2026

Side by side

Same prompt, both answers

Opening lines from every prompt both answered. Formatting stripped, words untouched.

Michelin Star Recipe Design

Design an innovative recipe for a multi-component dish worthy of a Michelin 3-star restaurant. The recipe should feature an unusual…

GPT-4.5322 words

Dish Title: "Ocean & Earth Symphony: Kombu-Cured Venison, Sea Urchin Custard, Black Garlic Soil, and Smoked Cherry Blossom Emulsion" Conceptual Narrative: This composition embodies the delicate interplay between land and sea, exploring the subtle yet profound connection between umami-rich sea elements and earthy forest…

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Laguna XS 2.1 (free)602 words

Recipe: "Nocturne of Shadows and Light" Concept: A poetic exploration of ancient flavors (pomegranate, quince) intertwined with modernist techniques (spherification, sous vide) and an unexpected coffee-cocoa depth, harmonizing the boldness of game with the elegance of fruit.

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Advanced Longevity Plan (Biohacker)

Develop a comprehensive, cutting-edge 3-month longevity plan for a biohacker aiming to optimize longevity, physical and cognitive…

GPT-4.5202 words

Longevity Optimization Protocol (3-Month Timeline) Month 1: Establish Foundational Habits & Baseline Metrics Full biomarker panel & epigenetic age test. Wearable setup: Oura/WHOOP, CGM, HR chest strap. Diet: 5-day keto (70/25/5) + 2 carb-refeed days; 16:8 IF + weekly 24-h fast.

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Laguna XS 2.1 (free)828 words

3-Month Longevity & Performance Optimization Plan for a Biohacker Designed for advanced biohackers with a focus on longevity, cognitive sharpness, and peak physical performance. Assumes access to basic medical testing, wearables, and some advanced tools (e.g., neurofeedback apps).

Read the full answer

Our Verdict

GPT-4.5

Laguna XS 2.1 (free)

Not enough votes to call it. On the specs, nothing separates them.

Too close to call

API pricing

Cost per 1M tokens

GPT-4.5

Input

$75.00

Output

$150.00

Laguna XS 2.1 (free)

Input

$0.000

Output

$0.000

Where to run it

1 host

GPT-4.5

No hosts listed on OpenRouter.

Laguna XS 2.1 (free)1 host

HostInOutContextUptime

Poolsidefp8$0 in$0 out262k99.8% up

Per million tokens. Prices and uptime via OpenRouter, checked 23 Sep 2026.

Research

What we learned reading every model

FAQ

Common questions

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More comparisons

Same prompt, both answers

Michelin Star Recipe Design

Advanced Longevity Plan (Biohacker)

Cost per 1M tokens

1 host

What we learned reading every model

Common questions

What is the difference between GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

Which is better, GPT-4.5 or Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

How much does GPT-4.5 cost compared to Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

How can I compare GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) on Rival?

More comparisons

Against the newest arrivals

Same lab, same size, long tail

Model pages

Same prompt, both answers

Michelin Star Recipe Design

Advanced Longevity Plan (Biohacker)

Cost per 1M tokens

1 host

What we learned reading every model

Common questions

What is the difference between GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

Which is better, GPT-4.5 or Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

How much does GPT-4.5 cost compared to Laguna XS 2.1 (free)?

How can I compare GPT-4.5 and Laguna XS 2.1 (free) on Rival?

More comparisons

Against the newest arrivals

Same lab, same size, long tail

Model pages