Running OpenClaw can get expensive fast. If you’re posting frequently, automating replies, or scaling your bot operations, those API calls add up — sometimes hitting $100+ per day before you notice.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to pay premium prices for premium results.
The Two Cheapest Models for OpenClaw
After testing dozens of models against OpenClaw workloads, two stand out for their combination of quality, speed, and cost:
MiniMax M2.1
MiniMax M2.1 has become a favorite for high-volume OpenClaw operations. It handles conversational tasks, reply generation, and everyday dialogue with surprising competence — often matching more expensive models on straight-line tasks.
Why it works for OpenClaw:
- Fast response times (critical for bot operations)
- Excellent at understanding context in short exchanges
- Consistently ranked among the lowest-cost-per-token models available
GPT-OSS-120b
OpenSource GPT-120b (often called GPT-OSS-120b) brings OpenAI-style reasoning to your OpenClaw without the OpenAI pricing. It’s larger than M2.1 and shines when you need more nuanced understanding or complex multi-turn conversations.
Use it when:
- You need higher reasoning quality
- The conversation thread gets complex
- You want GPT-4-level outputs at a fraction of the cost
Both Models Free Until March 1st
Haimaker.ai is offering both MiniMax M2.1 and GPT-OSS-120b completely free until March 1st, 2026. No credit card required — just sign up and start routing.
What you get:
- Full access to MiniMax M2.1 and GPT-OSS-120b
- Automatic routing between models based on your needs
- Same API format you’re already using
Why Most People Overpay for OpenClaw
The trap most OpenClaw users fall into is using the same model for every task. But not every reply needs Opus 4.5-level reasoning.
A quick status check? Cheaper model. A one-line acknowledgment? Even cheaper. A complex customer support situation? That’s when you route to a more capable model.
Haimaker’s routing engine lets you set rules based on:
- Task complexity
- Token limits
- Latency requirements
- Cost targets
How Much Can You Save?
Here’s a rough comparison based on typical OpenClaw usage patterns:
| Model | Cost per 1M tokens | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-4.5 | ~$75 | Complex reasoning, multi-turn |
| GPT-4o | ~$10 | Mid-tier tasks |
| MiniMax M2.1 | ~$0.10 | High-volume, simple tasks |
| GPT-OSS-120b | ~$0.50 | Quality reasoning at scale |
By routing 80% of your volume to M2.1 and saving GPT-OSS for tougher jobs, most users see their OpenClaw bill drop by 60-90%.
Getting Started
- Sign up at haimaker.ai
- Point your OpenClaw config at the Haimaker API
- Set up routing rules for your workload
The Bottom Line
If you’re running OpenClaw at scale and paying premium prices, you’re throwing money away. MiniMax M2.1 and GPT-OSS-120b deliver 90%+ of the quality at 1-10% of the cost — and they’re free to use until March 1st.
No credit card required. Just your OpenClaw API key and a willingness to cut costs.
This post was updated February 2026. Free model access ends March 1st, 2026.