Understanding CUs

What is a Capacity Unit (CU)?

Our innovative CU system simplifies AI usage across multiple models. Learn how we convert complex token pricing into one predictable unit.

CU Conversion Examples

1 CU
Cost of processing ~1,000 words (about 1 normal page of text)
2 CU
1 minute of audio processing
5 CU
1 standard image generation
50 CU
1 second of standard 1080p video

Instead of juggling different token prices across multiple AI models, we convert everything into a single, predictable unit. Your plan's "fuel tank" is expressed in CUs, and our dashboard shows exactly how much capacity you have left.

1. What's a token, anyway?

Most AI providers meter usage in tokens—tiny chunks of text (≈ ¾ of a word). Each model charges a different price per million tokens, so keeping track across dozens of models gets messy fast. OpenAI charges one rate, Claude another, Gemini yet another—and that's before factoring in different token costs for input vs. output, or premium vs. standard models.

2. Why we invented the CU

Adora AI taps over 165 different AI models (OpenAI, Gemini, Claude, Grok, Perplexity, and more) whose token prices range from pennies to dollars. Managing 165+ different pricing structures would be impossibly complex—that's why we created the CU matrix in the first place. Instead of making you juggle that variability, we convert everything into a single, predictable unit:

1 CU = the cost of processing about 1,000 words (about 1 normal page of text).
2 CU = 1 min Audio
5 CU's = 1 standard Image
50 CU = 1 Second of Standard 1080p Video

Think of it as putting fuel from every supplier into one universal gallon. Your plan's "fuel tank" is expressed in CUs, and the on-screen meter simply shows how full that tank is—no token math required.

3. What you'll see on your dashboard

Your CU meter uses a simple color-coded system to help you track usage:

MeterTells youWhat to do
Green (<70%)
Plenty of CUs left this month.Create freely.
Amber (70-90%)
You're on track to use most of your allowance.Consider lighter summaries or a pack purchase.
Red (>90%)
Fuel's almost gone.Top up with an add-on pack or upgrade your plan.

4. Need fine-grained control?

Enterprise clients can unlock Transparent Mode for complete visibility and control:

  • Full price sheet for every model in our catalog
  • Workflow-level model routing (e.g., "use Gemini Flash for drafts, Claude 4 for contracts")
  • Real-time cost simulator before you run a job

Fee: $12,000 per year, billed up-front

(covers admin tooling, dedicated support, and 12 Enterprise Blocks)

This gives your FinOps or data teams granular levers while individual users keep the same clean CU experience.

Ready to Get Started?

Join thousands of users who have simplified their AI workflow with our CU system. No more token confusion—just predictable, transparent pricing.