Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking: The Ultimate Performance & Pricing Comparison

Deep dive into reasoning, benchmarks, and latency insights.

The Final Verdict in the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking Showdown

After a comprehensive analysis, Kimi K2 Thinking emerges as the superior choice for users prioritizing raw intelligence and reasoning. However, Qwen3 Max Thinking remains a highly competitive option, especially for scenarios demanding faster response times and cost-efficiency. This detailed Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking comparison will break down every critical metric to help you make the best decision.

Explore best-for scenarios•Let the AI Selector recommend next steps

Model Snapshot

Key decision metrics at a glance.

Kimi K2 Thinking

Other

Reasoning: 9
Coding: 3
Multimodal: 3
Long Context: 5
Blended Price / 1M tokens: $0.001
P95 Latency: 1000ms
Tokens per second: 97.439tokens/sec

Qwen3 Max Thinking

Other

Reasoning: 6
Coding: 3
Multimodal: 3
Long Context: 5
Blended Price / 1M tokens: $0.002
P95 Latency: 1000ms
Tokens per second: 39.021tokens/sec

Overall Capabilities

The capability radar provides a holistic view of the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking matchup. This chart illustrates each model's strengths and weaknesses at a glance, forming a cornerstone of our Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking analysis.

This radar chart visually maps the core capabilities (reasoning, coding, math proxy, multimodal, long context) of `Kimi K2 Thinking` vs `Qwen3 Max Thinking`.

Benchmark Breakdown

For a granular look, this chart directly compares scores across standardized benchmarks. In the critical MMLU Pro test, a key part of the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking debate, Kimi K2 Thinking scores 90 against Qwen3 Max Thinking's 60. This data-driven approach is essential for any serious Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking comparison.

This grouped bar chart provides a side-by-side comparison for each benchmark metric.

Speed & Latency

Speed is a crucial factor in the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking decision for interactive applications. The metrics below highlight the trade-offs you should weigh before shipping to production.

Time to First Token

Kimi K2 Thinking300ms

Qwen3 Max Thinking300ms

Tokens per Second

Kimi K2 Thinking97.439

Qwen3 Max Thinking39.021

Head to the playground to validate these results yourself

The Economics of Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking

Power is only one part of the equation. This Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking pricing analysis gives you a true sense of value.

Pricing Breakdown

Compare input and output pricing at a glance.

Real-World Cost Scenario

To process 1M input tokens and generate 250k output tokens, Kimi K2 Thinking would cost $0.001, whereas Qwen3 Max Thinking would cost $0.003. This practical calculation is vital for any developer considering the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking choice.

Review the complete pricing and packaging strategy

Which Model Wins the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking Battle for You?

Choose Kimi K2 Thinking if...

Your top priority is raw performance and capability.

You are working in a technical or scientific field requiring the highest accuracy.

You need the most advanced reasoning capabilities available.

Choose Qwen3 Max Thinking if...

You are developing at scale where operational costs are critical.

You prioritize cost-effectiveness over maximum performance.

Your workload requires consistent, reliable performance.

Explore all Best picks Use the AI Selector for a tailored recommendation

Your Questions about the Kimi K2 Thinking vs Qwen3 Max Thinking Comparison

Review the full evaluation methodology · Read the latest analysis posts

Data source: https://artificialanalysis.ai/