Model Comparison
GPT-4o Image Generation vs GPT-5
GPT-4o Image Generation: HeavyGPT-5: Very heavy
Side-by-side environmental impact comparison. GPT-5 uses 4.1x more energy per query.
GPT-5 uses 4.1x more energy than GPT-4o Image Generation
18.4 Wh vs 4.5 Wh per query · 8.0 g vs 2.0 g CO₂ · 66 mL vs 16 mL water
GPT-4o Image Generation
OpenAI
Energy per query4.5 Wh
CO₂ per query2.0 g
Water per query16 mL
VS
GPT-5
OpenAI
Energy per query18.4 Wh
CO₂ per query8.0 g
Water per query66 mL
GPT-4o Image Generation
ProviderOpenAI
CategoryImage Generation
Inference LocationAzure US East / Sweden
Confidenceestimated
Efficiency TierHeavy
GPT-5
ProviderOpenAI
CategoryText / Chat
Inference LocationAzure / Multi-cloud
Confidencepeer-reviewed
Efficiency TierVery heavy
Frequently Asked Questions
Which uses more energy, GPT-4o Image Generation or GPT-5?
GPT-5 uses 4.1x more energy per query than GPT-4o Image Generation. GPT-4o Image Generation uses 4.5 Wh per query, while GPT-5 uses 18.4 Wh.
What is the carbon footprint difference between GPT-4o Image Generation and GPT-5?
GPT-5 uses 4.0x more CO₂ per query than GPT-4o Image Generation. GPT-4o Image Generation emits 2.0 g of CO₂ per query compared to GPT-5's 8.0 g.
Which is more environmentally friendly, GPT-4o Image Generation or GPT-5?
GPT-4o Image Generation is the more environmentally friendly option, using 4.5 Wh per query compared to GPT-5's 18.4 Wh. That makes GPT-5 roughly 4.1x more energy-intensive.
Calculate your footprint with these models
See how your daily usage of GPT-4o Image Generation and GPT-5 adds up over time. Our calculator estimates energy, carbon, and water impact.
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