Understanding Cost Optimization in OpenClaw: Advanced vs Basic Agents
In the world of AI assistants, managing computational resources is crucial. OpenClaw introduces a powerful cost-saving strategy through its dual-agent approach: Advanced and Basic modes.
The Two-Agent Strategy
OpenClaw runs with two primary agents:
- Main Agent (Claude Sonnet): A high-compute, sophisticated AI capable of complex tasks.
- Lite Agent (Claude Haiku): A more resource-efficient agent for simpler tasks.
How Basic Mode Works
When a user prefixes a task with b: or basic:, OpenClaw automatically delegates to the Haiku agent. This means:
b: Schedule a meeting
# Uses Haiku agent - faster, cheaper
Cost Savings Breakdown
By strategically using Basic mode, users can potentially save up to 90% of computational costs. Here’s a practical example:
| Task Complexity | Agent | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Task (meeting scheduling) | Haiku (Basic Mode) | $0.10 |
| Complex Analysis | Sonnet (Advanced Mode) | $1.00 |
When to Use Each Mode
- Basic Mode (b:): Quick tasks, simple queries, routine operations
- Advanced Mode (advanced: or no prefix): Complex problem-solving, in-depth analysis, creative tasks
By understanding and utilizing these modes, you can make your AI interactions not just more intelligent, but also more cost-effective.