GPT-5.5 Mini

What GPT-5.5 Mini does

GPT-5.5 Mini is built by OpenAI and is positioned for code, chat and summarization. Our readings score it strongest on response speed and multi-step reasoning.

Its weakest measured axis is data analysis (84/100), so plan around that when the work depends on it. Access is freemium, and the weights are closed, so you can only reach it through the vendor's own service.

Ethical stance

Transparency reads 52/100. Some model cards and evaluations are public, but training data and methods are only partly described.

Labor and job-displacement posture reads 44/100. There is partial disclosure on data work and workforce impact, with clear gaps.

Regulatory posture reads 62/100. The vendor cooperates with regulators selectively, and lobbies against parts of it.

Privacy and data handling

Privacy and data handling reads 58/100. Training opt-out and retention controls exist, but defaults or consumer tiers are less protective.

Because the weights are closed, every prompt is processed on vendor infrastructure — treat regulated or confidential data accordingly.

Energy, carbon and water

Carbon footprint reads 68/100. The energy mix is mixed, and disclosure covers some but not all serving regions.

Water and local impact reads 60/100. Some sites use evaporative cooling in regions with moderate water stress.

Speed and efficiency also matter here: a 93/100 speed reading means fewer compute-seconds per answer for routine work.

Diagnostic notes

Lower inference footprint per token than the flagship tier.