MiniMax vs VAST Data
Which Developer Tools AI tool is better in 2026?
MiniMax
Chinese AI lab behind Hailuo video and Talkie companions.
VAST Data
Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure
Side-by-side
VAST Data is the more established option (raised $2.4B), but MiniMax is cheaper to start.
| Metric | MiniMax | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Chinese AI lab behind Hailuo video and Talkie companions. | Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure |
| Foundedi | 2021 | 2016🏆 |
| HQi | Shanghai, CN | US |
| Employeesi | 201-500 | 201-500 |
| Neuron scorei | 66 | 90🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $2.2B | $2.4B🏆 |
| Latest roundi | IPO · Jan 2026 | Series F · Apr 2026 |
| Valuationi | $13.7B | $30B🏆 |
| Cheapest paid plani | —🏆 | — |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | — | Enterprise · Contact sales |
| Pricing summaryi | 1 published plans | 1 published plans |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for MiniMax and VAST Data.
| Capability | MiniMax | VAST Data |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✗ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✗ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✓ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of MiniMax
- Newer company (2021)
🔵 Strengths of VAST Data
- Has raised more capital ($2.4B vs $2.2B)
- Higher Neuron score (90 vs 66)
- More mature (2016)
Which should you choose?
Choose MiniMax if price matters most — it starts at Freemium, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Developer Tools tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose VAST Data if you want the most established option — it has raised $2.4B, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
💸 Deals
MiniMax API — free signup credits
MiniMax gives new developers free signup credits across Hailuo video, voice cloning, and abab chat APIs.
Terms: New accounts only.
Frequently asked questions
MiniMax vs VAST Data — which is better?
It depends on your priority. MiniMax is the leaner option; VAST Data has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is MiniMax cheaper than VAST Data?
Yes — MiniMax's cheapest paid plan is Freemium, while VAST Data's is Enterprise · Contact sales.
Do MiniMax and VAST Data offer free plans?
MiniMax: Paid only. VAST Data: Paid only.
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