Model Comparison
GPT-4o vs GPT-4o Image Generation
GPT-4o: Ultra-efficientGPT-4o Image Generation: Heavy
Side-by-side environmental impact comparison. GPT-4o Image Generation uses 10.5x more energy per query.
GPT-4o Image Generation uses 10.5x more energy than GPT-4o
4.5 Wh vs 0.43 Wh per query · 2.0 g vs 0.19 g CO₂ · 16 mL vs 2 mL water
GPT-4o
OpenAI
Energy per query0.43 Wh
CO₂ per query0.19 g
Water per query2 mL
VS
GPT-4o Image Generation
OpenAI
Energy per query4.5 Wh
CO₂ per query2.0 g
Water per query16 mL
GPT-4o
ProviderOpenAI
CategoryText / Chat
Inference LocationAzure US East / Sweden
Confidencepeer-reviewed
Efficiency TierUltra-efficient
GPT-4o Image Generation
ProviderOpenAI
CategoryImage Generation
Inference LocationAzure US East / Sweden
Confidenceestimated
Efficiency TierHeavy
Frequently Asked Questions
Which uses more energy, GPT-4o or GPT-4o Image Generation?
GPT-4o Image Generation uses 10.5x more energy per query than GPT-4o. GPT-4o uses 0.43 Wh per query, while GPT-4o Image Generation uses 4.5 Wh.
What is the carbon footprint difference between GPT-4o and GPT-4o Image Generation?
GPT-4o Image Generation uses 10.5x more CO₂ per query than GPT-4o. GPT-4o emits 0.19 g of CO₂ per query compared to GPT-4o Image Generation's 2.0 g.
Which is more environmentally friendly, GPT-4o or GPT-4o Image Generation?
GPT-4o is the more environmentally friendly option, using 0.43 Wh per query compared to GPT-4o Image Generation's 4.5 Wh. That makes GPT-4o Image Generation roughly 10.5x more energy-intensive.
Calculate your footprint with these models
See how your daily usage of GPT-4o and GPT-4o Image Generation adds up over time. Our calculator estimates energy, carbon, and water impact.
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