Modal vs. Baseten

We created a containerization platform using Rust that focuses on achieving the fastest cold-start times possible. This platform enables effortless scaling from hundreds of GPUs down to zero in just seconds, meaning you only incur costs for the resources you actively use. Functions can be deployed to the cloud in seconds, and it supports custom container images along with specific hardware requirements. There's no need to deal with YAML; our system makes the process straightforward. Startups and academic researchers can take advantage of free compute credits up to $25,000 on Modal, applicable to GPU computing and access to high-demand GPU types. Modal keeps a close eye on CPU usage based on fractional physical cores, where each physical core equates to two vCPUs, and it also monitors memory consumption in real-time. You are billed only for the actual CPU and memory resources consumed, with no hidden fees involved. This novel strategy not only simplifies deployment but also enhances cost efficiency for users, making it an attractive solution for a wide range of applications. Additionally, our platform ensures that users can focus on their projects without worrying about resource management complexities.

Baseten is an advanced platform engineered to provide mission-critical AI inference with exceptional reliability and performance at scale. It supports a wide range of AI models, including open-source frameworks, proprietary models, and fine-tuned versions, all running on inference-optimized infrastructure designed for production-grade workloads. Users can choose flexible deployment options such as fully managed Baseten Cloud, self-hosted environments within private VPCs, or hybrid models that combine the best of both worlds. The platform leverages cutting-edge techniques like custom kernels, advanced caching, and specialized decoding to ensure low latency and high throughput across generative AI applications including image generation, transcription, text-to-speech, and large language models. Baseten Chains further optimizes compound AI workflows by boosting GPU utilization and reducing latency. Its developer experience is carefully crafted with seamless deployment, monitoring, and management tools, backed by expert engineering support from initial prototyping through production scaling. Baseten also guarantees 99.99% uptime with cloud-native infrastructure that spans multiple regions and clouds. Security and compliance certifications such as SOC 2 Type II and HIPAA ensure trustworthiness for sensitive workloads. Customers praise Baseten for enabling real-time AI interactions with sub-400 millisecond response times and cost-effective model serving. Overall, Baseten empowers teams to accelerate AI product innovation with performance, reliability, and hands-on support.