This guide explains how PhantomBuster AI credits work, how they differ from OpenAI tokens, how GPT models affect usage, and how to manage credit consumption effectively.
What are PhantomBuster AI credits
PhantomBuster AI credits are included in all paid plans. You’ll use them automatically whenever you run an AI Phantom, such as:
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Advanced AI Enricher (if you don’t connect your own OpenAI key)
AI credits are consumed based on:
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The complexity of your prompt.
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The volume of data being processed.
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The GPT model you choose: GPT-3.5, GPT-4, or GPT-4o.
You can monitor your remaining AI credits from the Usage page in your workspace.
PhantomBuster AI credits vs OpenAI tokens
By default, all AI Phantoms use your built-in PhantomBuster credits.
However, if you prefer to use your own OpenAI account, you can connect it, but only for one Phantom: the Advanced AI Enricher.
→ See How to Connect and Use your OpenAI GPT Account with PhantomBuster.
Even if your GPT account is connected, all other AI Phantoms will continue using your PhantomBuster credits.
If you run out of OpenAI tokens, remember that your PhantomBuster subscription includes AI credits. Use these built-in credits as a fallback to keep your automations running smoothly!
Choosing the right GPT model
Each model provides a different balance of cost and output quality:
- GPT-3.5 is the most credit-efficient. Use it for simpler tasks like generating LinkedIn messages or quickly scoring a small list of leads.
- GPT-4.0 is a faster, more efficient version of GPT-4. Good for more detailed analysis without the full cost of GPT-4. It is a good option for more complex needs such as in-depth sentiment analysis or creating custom data fields with the Advanced AI Enricher.
- GPT-4 is best for complex data enrichment and advanced lead scoring, but uses significantly more credits.
Approximate conversion:
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GPT-3.5: 100 tokens ≈ 1 credit
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GPT-4o: 100 tokens ≈ 10 credits
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GPT-4: 100 tokens ≈ 30 credits
The more advanced the model, the faster your credits will be used, so choose based on the complexity of your task, not just model power.
How to reduce AI credit usage
To get the most out of your PhantomBuster plan:
- Use GPT-3.5 for repetitive or simple tasks (like message generation).
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Keep your prompt short and focused, avoid adding unnecessary logic or variables.
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Only include essential fields in your input data.
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Limit how many rows are processed per launch (adjust this in the Phantom’s Behavior settings).
Being mindful of prompt size, data volume, and model selection helps you get more value from your plan.
What happens if you run out of credits
If you reach your AI credit limit for the month, you’ll be prompted to either:
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Wait for your plan to renew, or
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Upgrade to a higher plan for more credits.
If you're using the Advanced AI Enricher with a connected OpenAI key, the Phantom will automatically switch to your OpenAI token balance so your automation doesn’t get interrupted.