Gemini API

Gemini models via AI Studio and the Gemini API.

Google · checked Oct 22, 2026

What it is

Google's Gemini Developer API offers a free tier (on eligible models) and paid tiers, including Gemini 4 Argon (paid only).

Use cases

→Free-tier prototyping
→Long-context and multimodal apps
→Search-grounded answers

Pros

+Free tier for prototyping
+Gemini 4 Argon introductory pricing
+Grounding with Google Search

Cons

−Argon price doubles Dec 1, 2026
−Free-tier data may be used to improve products

Where it ranks

#3 Best LLM APIs & Model Routers
Free tier for prototyping and Gemini 4 Argon at introductory $2/$10 (through Nov 30, 2026).

On the Release Radar

Gemini 4 Argon generally available

Google's frontier model is available via the Gemini API/AI Studio, in Antigravity for AI Ultra subscribers, and in the Gemini app. Introductory API price $2 input / $10 output per 1M tokens.

Verdict: Builders doing large refactors or long agentic tasks: try it before the Dec 1 price increase.

Worth trying Gemini API Google blog Oct 13, 2026

FAQ

How much does Gemini API cost?

Free tier on eligible models. Gemini 4 Argon (paid tier): $2 input / $10 output per 1M tokens through Nov 30, 2026, rising to $4 / $20 from Dec 1, 2026. (As checked on 2026-10-22; confirm on https://ai.google.dev/gemini-api/docs/pricing.)

What is Gemini API best for?

#3 in Best LLM APIs & Model Routers: Prototyping free; long-context work.

What are the best alternatives to Gemini API?

Claude API (Anthropic) (Claude models for coding and agents); OpenAI API (GPT-6 family models via API); OpenRouter (One API for 500+ models across 80+ providers).

Is Gemini API open source?

No, Gemini API is a commercial product.