Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash vs Z.ai: GLM 5.3
google vs z-ai
On price, Z.ai: GLM 5.3 is cheaper (blended cost is about 0.25× that of Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash).
On capability, Z.ai: GLM 5.3 has the higher intelligence index (45) — better for complex reasoning.
Verdict: pick Z.ai: GLM 5.3 on a budget, or Z.ai: GLM 5.3 for output quality. Full details below.
Side-by-Side Specs
| Metric | Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash | Z.ai: GLM 5.3 |
|---|---|---|
| Input /1M | $0.82 | $0.08 |
| Output /1M | $4.13 | $1.40 |
| Blended (3:1) | $1.65 | $0.41 |
| Context | 1.0M | 1.0M |
| Intelligence | 41 | 45 |
| Coding | 76 | 75 |
| Math | — | — |
| Speed | 127 tok/s | 69 tok/s |
| CPS Grade | A | S |
FAQ
Which is cheaper, Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash or Z.ai: GLM 5.3?
On price, Z.ai: GLM 5.3 is cheaper (blended cost is about 0.25× that of Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash). Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash: $0.825 in / $4.125 out; Z.ai: GLM 5.3: $0.079 in / $1.4 out (per 1M tokens).
Which is smarter, Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash or Z.ai: GLM 5.3?
On capability, Z.ai: GLM 5.3 has the higher intelligence index (45) — better for complex reasoning. Coding index: Google: Gemini 3.8 Flash 76 vs Z.ai: GLM 5.3 75.
Which one should I choose?
Verdict: pick Z.ai: GLM 5.3 on a budget, or Z.ai: GLM 5.3 for output quality. Full details below.