Keep the native unit
Image generation can use an image or another provider-defined unit; video and audio may use duration or processing-based units. The exchange preserves the source’s native unit when supplied. An unavailable token rate should not be displayed as free.
Match the output specification
Resolution, duration, number of outputs, quality settings and endpoint choice can change a quote. Compare a concrete task such as a specified output size and duration. If a source provides conditional pricing, inspect the published rules rather than treating the headline number as a universal price.
Usage is separate from billing
A modality request count measures observed requests, not the number of media assets produced or their cost. One request can have provider-specific semantics. Model profiles link the relevant source so the metric and billing definition can be checked independently.