kimi-k2-0905-preview vs qwen3-max-preview

Direct benchmark comparison between kimi-k2-0905-preview and qwen3-max-preview based on LMArena Elo and latest API pricing.

Direct Technical Comparison

Frontier Model	LMArena Elo	API Cost (1M)	Throughput
kimi-k2-0905-preview	1418	$4e-7	23
qwen3-max-preview	1435	$7.8e-7	28

*These models represent the Pareto Frontier (optimal cost-to-performance).*

Conclusion: For developers looking for higher intelligence, qwen3-max-preview currently leads with an Elo of 1435.