Compare models on the same work

A comparison is easier to interpret when each model receives the same task, data and tools. Keep the starting state consistent and record settings that can change the outcome, including reasoning effort and context limits.

Measure quality and cost together, and keep failures in the record. A system that is quick on easy cases may behave differently on an ambiguous request. If an adapter changes tool behavior, label that route instead of assuming it is equivalent to a native integration.

Use the results to choose a configuration for a particular workload. There may be several useful choices rather than a universal winner.