LPU-based inference architecture
Groq’s LPU is a custom inference chip designed for deterministic, token-based execution. The architecture page says the design removes traditional software complexity and aims to keep performance predictable.
Groq
Freemium
Fast, low-cost AI inference with Groq LPU and GroqCloud
What is Groq?
Groq is an inference platform built around the Groq LPU, a custom chip and software stack focused on running AI models quickly and at a predictable cost. The site positions GroqCloud as the developer-facing service for accessing models and inference, with OpenAI-compatible API access and support for getting started quickly with existing code.
The product is aimed at developers and teams that need low-latency model responses, scalable inference, and pricing described as linear and predictable. The pricing page shows on-demand access to openly available models, prompt caching, built-in tools for compound systems, and a Batch API for large workloads, while the enterprise pages add deployment options and dedicated support for larger organizations.
What can Groq do?
Model access across text, audio, and vision
The pricing page shows on-demand access to multiple openly available models, including GPT-OSS, Llama, Qwen, Kimi, and Whisper variants, with model-specific token pricing.
Prompt caching pricing
Groq documents prompt caching with separate cached and uncached input token pricing. The page notes there is no extra fee for the caching feature itself, and the discount applies when a cache hit occurs.
Built-in tool use for compound systems
Compound AI systems can use built-in tools such as web search, visit website, code execution, and browser automation. Pricing is passed through to the underlying models and server-side tools.
Asynchronous batch processing
Batch API supports asynchronous large-scale request processing, with a stated 50% lower cost, no impact to standard rate limits, and a 24-hour to 7-day processing window.
OpenAI-compatible API access
The site states Groq’s API is OpenAI compatible and can be started with just a few lines of code using the Groq base URL and API key.
Use Cases
“Real-time conversational apps”
Teams building chat or assistant products can use GroqCloud to serve model responses with low latency and predictable per-token pricing, especially when response time affects the user experience.
“Fast API migration”
Developers who already use OpenAI-style client libraries can switch to Groq by changing the base URL and using the Groq API key, which lowers migration friction.
“Tool-using AI workflows”
Products that need retrieval, web lookup, or code execution can use compound AI systems with built-in tools such as web search, visit website, and code execution.
“High-volume batch workloads”
Organizations running large jobs can use the Batch API to process requests asynchronously at lower cost without affecting standard rate limits.
“Enterprise inference deployments”
Enterprises with custom capacity, deployment, or support needs can use the Enterprise API Solutions flow for larger-scale inference planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Groq used for?
Groq provides inference infrastructure for developers and teams that need fast, low-cost model serving. The site shows OpenAI-compatible access and supports getting started with a small code change using the Groq API base URL.
What can developers do with GroqCloud?
The pricing page lists core model access, enterprise-only models, prompt caching, built-in tools, and batch API processing. The home page also points to GroqCloud as the place developers use for inference.
Does Groq offer only the models shown on the pricing page?
The pricing page shows on-demand pricing for several openly available models and indicates that other models are available for specific customer requests, including fine-tuned models.
Is there an enterprise option?
Yes. The enterprise page offers an Enterprise API Solutions flow for larger deployments, custom solutions, and dedicated support, and it also mentions deployment options.
Can teams get started without an enterprise contract?
The site says you can start for free and upgrade as needs grow, and the pricing page includes a contact path for enterprise API solutions or on-premises deployments.
Quick Facts
- Category
- AI infrastructure / Developer Tool
- Primary product
- GroqCloud inference platform
- Core technology
- Groq LPU
- Access model
- OpenAI-compatible API
- Pricing model
- On-demand token pricing plus enterprise sales flow
- Website
- groq.com
Groq Traffic Analysis
Traffic data is for reference only.
- Domain Rating
- 85
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