Different Types of AI: Comparison

Classification by processing depth and capabilities

Updated: November 2025

Immediate Response

(<2 seconds)

How it works

Query → Direct Response

Instant prediction without visible reasoning steps.

Model examples

  • GPT-3.5 Turbo
  • Claude Haiku
  • Gemini Flash

Use cases

  • Conversational chat
  • Simple extraction
  • Direct questions
  • Basic summaries

Cost

$0.6-3 / 1M tokens

Short Reasoning

(2-10 seconds)

How it works

Query → Analysis (3-8 steps) → Response

Visible problem decomposition into multiple reasoning steps.

Model examples

  • GPT-4 Turbo
  • Claude Sonnet 4.5
  • Gemini 2.0 Flash

Use cases

  • Document analysis
  • Code generation
  • Multi-tool tasks
  • Simple planning

Cost

$3-15 / 1M tokens

Extended Reasoning

(10-120 seconds)

How it works

Query → Exploration (10-100+ steps) → Response

Multi-branch exploration with internal validation and backtracking.

Model examples

  • GPT-o1
  • GPT-o3
  • Claude Sonnet 4.5 (extended mode)

Use cases

  • Scientific research
  • Mathematical problems
  • Complex strategy
  • Multi-step reasoning

Cost

$15-60 / 1M tokens

Capability Comparison

Criterion Immediate Short Extended
Latency <2s 2-10s 10-120s
Reasoning steps 0 3-8 10-100+
Tool usage
Complex tasks
GPQA Diamond (accuracy) 45-60% 60-75% 75-85%

Modality legend:

Text Vision Audio Multimedia generation

Evolution of Capabilities

Immediate Response

Fast and direct

Short Reasoning

Structured analysis

Extended Reasoning

Deep exploration