MiniMax vs Zed
Which Developer Tools AI tool is better in 2026?
MiniMax
Chinese AI lab behind Hailuo video and Talkie companions.
Zed
The multiplayer code editor — fast, native, and AI-first from the ground up
Side-by-side
MiniMax is the more established option (raised $2.2B); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | MiniMax | Zed |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Chinese AI lab behind Hailuo video and Talkie companions. | The multiplayer code editor — fast, native, and AI-first from the ground up |
| Foundedi | 2021 | 2021 |
| HQi | Shanghai, CN | San Francisco, US |
| Employeesi | 201-500 | 11-50🏆 |
| Neuron scorei | 77🏆 | 53 |
| Total fundingi | $2.2B🏆 | $42M |
| Latest roundi | IPO · Jan 2026 | Series B · Aug 2025 |
| Valuationi | $13.7B🏆 | — |
| Cheapest paid plani | — | Pricing not disclosed |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✓ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✗ |
| Top tier pricei | — | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | 1 published plans | Free |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for MiniMax and Zed.
| Capability | MiniMax | Zed |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✗ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✗ | ✓ |
| Free trial | ✗ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✓ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of MiniMax
- Has raised more capital ($2.2B vs $42M)
- Higher Neuron score (77 vs 53)
🔵 Strengths of Zed
- Offers a free plan
Which should you choose?
Choose Zed if price matters most — it starts at Free, 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 MiniMax if you want the most established option — it has raised $2.2B, 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 Zed — which is better?
It depends on your priority. MiniMax has raised more capital and is the more established option; Zed has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is MiniMax cheaper than Zed?
No — Zed's cheapest paid plan is Free, while MiniMax's is Freemium.
Do MiniMax and Zed offer free plans?
MiniMax: Paid only. Zed: Yes, has a free plan.
Explore more AI Developer Tools tools
Contextual paths to related AI startups, deals and rankings.