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AI Glossary

What is Latency (AI)?

The delay between sending a prompt and receiving the first response token.

By Council Research TeamUpdated: Jan 27, 2026

Definition

Latency measures how quickly an AI responds, important for real-time applications. Factors include model size, server load, and network speed. Smaller models typically have lower latency.

Examples

1Time to first token
2API response time
3Streaming vs. batched responses

Why It Matters

For conversational AI and real-time applications, latency matters as much as quality—nobody wants to wait 10 seconds per response.

Related Terms

Inference (AI)

The process of an AI model generating outputs from inputs (vs. training).

Token (AI)

A chunk of text (roughly 4 characters or 3/4 of a word) that AI models process.

Large Language Model (LLM)

An AI system trained on vast text data to understand and generate human-like text.

Common Questions

What does Latency (AI) mean in simple terms?

The delay between sending a prompt and receiving the first response token.

Why is Latency (AI) important for AI users?

For conversational AI and real-time applications, latency matters as much as quality—nobody wants to wait 10 seconds per response.

How does Latency (AI) relate to AI chatbots like ChatGPT?

Latency (AI) is a fundamental concept in how AI assistants like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini work. For example: Time to first token Understanding this helps you use AI tools more effectively.

Related Use Cases

Best AI for Coding

Best AI for Writing

AI Models Using This Concept

ClaudeClaudeChatGPTChatGPTGeminiGemini

See Latency (AI) in Action

Council lets you compare responses from multiple AI models side-by-side. Experience different approaches to the same prompt instantly.

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