DeepSeek API Pricing: When to Call for the Best Deal (in PST)

Let’s be honest: nobody likes paying more than they have to—especially when it comes to API calls that can rack up a bill faster than you can say “token limit exceeded.” If you’re using DeepSeek’s models (deepseek-chat or deepseek-reasoner) and you’re based on the West Coast, timing is everything. Here’s how to keep your costs low and your CFO happy.

The Golden Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Pacific

DeepSeek offers off-peak, discounted pricing every day from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM Pacific Time. That’s not a typo. For eight glorious hours, your API calls are up to 75 % cheaper than the regular rates. If you’re scheduling big jobs, batch them during this window and watch your savings stack up.

The Numbers: How Cheap Is Cheap?

Here’s the breakdown for both deepseek-chat and deepseek-reasoner models during the discount window:

Model	Input (Cache Hit)	Input (Cache Miss)	Output
deepseek-chat	$0.035	$0.135	$0.55
deepseek-reasoner	$0.035	$0.135	$0.55

• Input (Cache Hit): Your prompt matches a cached result—lucky you, you pay the lowest rate.
• Input (Cache Miss): Not cached, but still a bargain compared to peak.
• Output: Same discounted rate for both models.

Why Does This Matter?

Let’s do some quick math. If you’re processing one million tokens (not as rare as you think), running your job during off-peak hours could save you over 70 % on input costs and 50 % on output. That’s more budget for coffee—or, you know, more tokens.

How to Remember the Window

The easiest way: set a recurring calendar reminder. Or, just remember—DeepSeek’s happy hour starts at 9:30 AM and ends at 5:30 PM Pacific, every single day.

Final Tips

• Batch your jobs: Stack up your requests and send them during the discount window.
• Monitor your usage: Prices can change, so check the official pricing page ↗ regularly.
• Use caching: Cache hits are always cheaper.

Don’t let your API bill surprise you. Time your calls, save your cash, and keep those tokens flowing.