Sora 2 offers three access methods: web version, iOS app, and API—but which one is right for you? This guide provides a comprehensive comparison across 8 dimensions including features, cost, ease of use, and limitations, with tailored recommendations for different user groups to help you make the optimal choice.
I. Overview of Sora 2's Three Access Methods
1.1 Basic Introduction to Access Methods
Web Version:
- Access URL: sora.chatgpt.com/explore
- Device Requirements: Any device with a browser (desktop, mobile, tablet)
- Login Method: ChatGPT account
- Launch Date: October 1, 2025
iOS App (Sora App):
- Download Channel: US App Store only
- Device Requirements: iPhone/iPad (latest iOS version)
- Login Method: ChatGPT account
- Launch Date: October 1, 2025
API Access:
- Access Method: Through third-party platforms like APIYI apiyi.com
- Technical Requirements: Programming skills or technical support needed
- Use Cases: Batch generation, automation, application integration
- Official Status: OpenAI official API planned; third-party reverse-engineered APIs currently available
1.2 Quick Selection Guide
| User Type | Recommended Method | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| General Users | Web Version | No US ID needed, instant access, full features |
| Mobile-Heavy Users | iOS App | Create anywhere, social features, smoother experience |
| Developers/Enterprises | API | Batch processing, automation, product integration |
| Budget-Conscious Users | Web + APIYI | Pay-as-you-go, lowest cost |
| Professional Creators | Web + Pro Subscription | 1080p HD, no watermark, unlimited |
II. Feature Comparison: Which Is More Powerful?
2.1 Core Video Generation Features
| Feature | Web Version | iOS App | API |
|---|---|---|---|
| Text-to-Video | ✅ Full Support | ✅ Full Support | ✅ Full Support |
| Image-to-Video | ✅ Supported | ✅ Supported | ✅ Supported (URL/Base64) |
| Prompt Editor | ✅ Full Editor | ✅ Mobile-Optimized | ⚠️ Manual Handling |
| Real-time Preview | ✅ Large Screen | ✅ Mobile Preview | ❌ No Preview |
| History | ✅ Full History | ✅ Full History | ⚠️ Self-Storage Required |
2.2 Output Quality and Specifications
| Output Spec | Web Version | iOS App | API (APIYI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1080p (Pro) | 1080p (Pro) | 720p |
| Duration | 10-20s | 10-20s | 10s |
| Watermark | Pro: None | Pro: None | No Watermark ✅ |
| Audio | ✅ Synced Audio | ✅ Synced Audio | ✅ Synced Audio |
| Format | MP4 | MP4 | MP4 (URL) |
Key Differences:
- ✅ APIYI Watermark-Free Advantage: Videos generated via APIYI have no watermark even for non-Pro users
- ✅ Web/iOS HD Advantage: Pro subscription offers 1080p, up to 20 seconds
- ⚠️ API Resolution Limit: Current third-party APIs mostly offer 720p
2.3 Exclusive Feature Comparison
Web Version Exclusive:
- ✅ Large screen editing experience
- ✅ Keyboard shortcuts support
- ✅ Multi-tab parallel work
- ✅ More detailed parameter settings
iOS App Exclusive:
- ✅ Social Features: Follow, like, comment, share
- ✅ Remix: Remix other users' videos
- ✅ Explore Feed: Personalized content recommendations
- ✅ Cameo Feature: Insert yourself into videos (requires identity verification)
- ✅ Offline Download: Save to camera roll for offline viewing
API Exclusive Advantages:
- ✅ Batch Generation: Submit multiple tasks at once
- ✅ Automated Workflows: No manual intervention required
- ✅ Application Integration: Embed into your own products
- ✅ Flexible Billing: Pay-per-use, no monthly fees
III. Cost Comparison: Which Is More Affordable?
3.1 Subscription Pricing Comparison
| Subscription | Monthly Fee | Web Access | iOS Access | API Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | ⚠️ Minimal Quota | ⚠️ Minimal Quota | ❌ Not Available |
| ChatGPT Plus | $20 | ✅ Limited Quota | ✅ Limited Quota | ❌ Not Available |
| ChatGPT Pro | $200 | ✅ Unlimited | ✅ Unlimited | ❌ Not Available |
| APIYI Pay-per-Use | Per Use | – | – | ✅ ¥0.8-1/video |
3.2 Cost Calculation
Scenario 1: Occasional Use (10 videos/month)
- Web Plus: $20/month = ¥140/month → ¥14/video
- iOS App Plus: $20/month = ¥140/month → ¥14/video
- APIYI Pay-per-Use: 10 × ¥0.8 = ¥8/month ✅ Most Cost-Effective
Scenario 2: Moderate Use (100 videos/month)
- Web Plus: $20/month → ¥1.4/video
- iOS App Plus: $20/month → ¥1.4/video
- APIYI Pay-per-Use: 100 × ¥0.8 = ¥80/month ✅ Still Cheaper
Scenario 3: Heavy Use (500+ videos/month)
- Web Pro: $200/month = ¥1400/month → ¥2.8/video ✅ Best Value
- iOS App Pro: $200/month = ¥1400/month → ¥2.8/video ✅ Best Value
- APIYI Pay-per-Use: 500 × ¥0.8 = ¥400/month (but lacks Pro premium features)
Cost Conclusion:
- 💰 Occasional Use (< 50/month): APIYI pay-per-use is cheapest
- 💰 Moderate Use (50-200/month): Plus subscription + Web/iOS
- 💰 Heavy Use (200+/month): Pro subscription + Web/iOS
3.3 Hidden Cost Analysis
Web Version Extra Costs:
- ❌ No extra costs
- ✅ Works on any device
iOS App Extra Costs:
- ⚠️ US Apple ID: ¥29 (one-time or free DIY registration)
- ⚠️ Invitation Code: ¥39 (required by some channels)
- ⚠️ iOS Device: iPhone/iPad required
- ⚠️ US IP Proxy: Needed for Chinese users, ~¥20-50/month
API Extra Costs:
- ⚠️ Development Costs: Technical skills or hiring developers
- ⚠️ Storage Costs: Video storage and management
- ⚠️ Server Costs: If doing batch processing
🎯 Cost Recommendation: If you're a regular user wanting to try Sora 2, go with the web version + Plus subscription directly—no need to hassle with iOS App's US ID and invitation codes. If usage frequency is very low (< 20 videos/month), pay-per-use through APIYI apiyi.com is more cost-effective with no subscription needed.
IV. Ease of Use Comparison: Which Is More Convenient?
4.1 Learning Curve
| Dimension | Web Version | iOS App | API |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Difficulty | ⭐ Easy | ⭐⭐⭐ Hard | ⭐⭐ Medium |
| Device Requirements | ⭐ Any Device | ⭐⭐⭐ iOS Only | ⭐⭐ Dev Environment |
| Learning Curve | ⭐ Gentle | ⭐ Gentle | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steep |
| First-Time Setup | < 5 min | 30-60 min | 1-3 hours |
4.2 Usage Workflow Comparison
Web Version Workflow (3 steps):
1. Open browser → Visit sora.chatgpt.com
2. Log in with ChatGPT account
3. Enter prompt → Generate video → Download
Time Required: < 5 minutes
iOS App Workflow (6 steps):
1. Register/purchase US Apple ID
2. Download Sora App
3. Obtain invitation code (if required)
4. Connect to US IP proxy
5. Log in with ChatGPT account
6. Enter prompt → Generate video → Download
Time Required: 30-60 minutes (first time)
API Workflow (5 steps):
1. Register APIYI account
2. Add funds and get API Key
3. Write code or use tools
4. Send API request
5. Receive video URL → Download
Time Required: 1-3 hours (first time, requires technical skills)
4.3 Actual User Experience
Web Version Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐:
- ✅ Comfortable large screen editing
- ✅ Precise mouse control
- ✅ Keyboard shortcuts
- ✅ Multi-tab parallel work
- ❌ Mobile experience mediocre
iOS App Experience ⭐⭐⭐⭐:
- ✅ Smooth touch interaction
- ✅ Create anywhere anytime
- ✅ Rich social features
- ✅ Seamless camera roll integration
- ❌ Small screen editing limitations
- ❌ Requires stable network
API Experience ⭐⭐⭐:
- ✅ Fully automated
- ✅ Efficient batch processing
- ✅ Flexible and controllable
- ❌ No visual interface
- ❌ Requires programming knowledge
- ❌ High debugging costs
V. Use Case Comparison: Which Suits You Best?
5.1 Individual Content Creators
Need: Create short video content for social media
Recommendation: Web Version (Plus Subscription) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reasons:
- ✅ Great large screen editing experience
- ✅ Full features and parameter control
- ✅ Plus subscription offers good value ($20/month)
- ✅ No hassle with US ID setup
Alternative: iOS App (if creating primarily on mobile)
5.2 Mobile-Heavy Users
Need: Create and share to social platforms anywhere
Recommendation: iOS App (Plus/Pro Subscription) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reasons:
- ✅ Best mobile experience
- ✅ Social features (follow, like, remix)
- ✅ Cameo feature (insert yourself into videos)
- ✅ Seamless iPhone camera roll integration
Note: Requires dealing with US ID and invitation code
5.3 Developers/Technical Users
Need: Integrate Sora 2 into products or workflows
Recommendation: API (APIYI) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reasons:
- ✅ Fully automated
- ✅ Efficient batch generation
- ✅ Integrate into apps or websites
- ✅ Pay-per-use, cost controllable
Technical Requirements: Programming skills (Python/JavaScript/Node.js, etc.)
5.4 Enterprise/Commercial Use
Need: Batch generate marketing videos, product demos
Recommendation: API + Pro Subscription Combo ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reasons:
- ✅ API for batch automated generation
- ✅ Pro subscription for high-quality individual videos (1080p no watermark)
- ✅ Flexible cost control
- ✅ Professional-grade output quality
Cost: APIYI ~¥0.8/video + Pro $200/month (optional)
5.5 Budget-Conscious Trial Users
Need: Try Sora 2 without spending much
Recommendation: Web Free + APIYI Pay-per-Use ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reasons:
- ✅ Web free account for basic features
- ✅ APIYI pay-per-use, pay for what you use (¥0.8/video)
- ✅ No long-term subscription
- ✅ Total cost controllable at ¥10-50/month
Note: Free account has minimal quota, mainly rely on APIYI supplement
5.6 Professional Video Creators
Need: High-quality video output for ads, brand content
Recommendation: Web Version (Pro Subscription) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reasons:
- ✅ 1080p HD resolution
- ✅ Up to 20 seconds duration
- ✅ Watermark-free downloads
- ✅ Unlimited generation
- ✅ Large screen precise control
Cost: $200/month (~¥1400/month)
VI. Limitations and Drawbacks Comparison
6.1 Web Version Limitations
Access Limitations:
- ⚠️ Requires stable international network (Chinese users need proxy)
- ⚠️ Plus users have quota limits (~100/day)
- ⚠️ Free users have minimal quota
Feature Limitations:
- ❌ No social features (can't follow, like, remix)
- ❌ No Cameo feature
- ❌ Mobile experience inferior to app
Technical Limitations:
- ⚠️ Depends on browser performance
- ⚠️ Requires continuous online connection
6.2 iOS App Limitations
Device Limitations:
- ❌ iOS Only: No Android or PC client
- ❌ US App Store Only: Requires US Apple ID
- ❌ Requires iPhone/iPad: Higher cost barrier
Access Limitations:
- ⚠️ Requires US IP proxy (for Chinese users)
- ⚠️ Some channels require invitation code (¥39)
- ⚠️ Plus users have quota limits
Usage Limitations:
- ❌ Small screen editing inferior to desktop
- ⚠️ Heavy data usage (downloading generated videos)
- ⚠️ Depends on app stability
6.3 API Limitations
Technical Barriers:
- ❌ Programming Skills Required: Not suitable for non-technical users
- ❌ No Visual Interface: Can't see real-time preview
- ⚠️ High debugging costs
Feature Limitations:
- ⚠️ Third-party API Lower Resolution: Mostly 720p (official API not yet released)
- ❌ No social features
- ❌ No real-time preview
Cost Limitations:
- ⚠️ High-volume use costs more than subscription
- ⚠️ Requires additional storage and server costs
6.4 Limitations Summary
| Limitation Type | Web Version | iOS App | API |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device Limit | ❌ None | ⚠️ iOS Only | ⚠️ Dev Environment |
| Region Limit | ⚠️ Proxy Needed | ⚠️ Proxy+US ID | ❌ None |
| Quota Limit | ⚠️ Plus Limited | ⚠️ Plus Limited | ❌ None (Pay-per-Use) |
| Technical Barrier | ⭐ Low | ⭐⭐ Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ High |
| Social Features | ❌ None | ✅ Full | ❌ None |
VII. Detailed Usage Tutorials
7.1 Web Version Quick Start
Step 1: Visit Website
1. Open browser
2. Visit https://sora.chatgpt.com/explore
3. If in China, connect to US IP proxy
Step 2: Login
1. Click "Login" in top right
2. Log in with ChatGPT account
3. Select subscription type (Plus/Pro/Free)
Step 3: Generate Video
1. Click "Create" button
2. Enter prompt description
3. (Optional) Upload reference image
4. Click "Generate"
5. Wait 3-5 minutes
6. Download video
Tips:
- ✅ First-time users recommended to choose Plus subscription ($20/month)
- ✅ Best experience on large screen desktop
- ✅ Save good prompts for reuse
7.2 iOS App Complete Setup Guide
Step 1: Get US Apple ID
Method A: DIY Registration (Free, time-consuming)
1. Visit appleid.apple.com
2. Create new account, select "United States"
3. Fill in US address (search "US address generator")
4. Verify email and phone
Method B: Purchase Ready ID (Fast, ¥29)
1. Visit b.gpts666.com or ai.daishengji.com
2. Purchase US Apple ID (¥29)
3. Get account credentials
Step 2: Download Sora App
1. Open App Store
2. Log out current Apple ID
3. Log in with US Apple ID
4. Search "Sora"
5. Download and install
Step 3: Get Invitation Code (if required)
1. Visit b.gpts666.com
2. Purchase invitation code (¥39)
3. Record code
Step 4: Login and Use
1. Connect to US IP proxy
2. Open Sora App
3. Log in with ChatGPT account
4. (If needed) Enter invitation code to activate
5. Start creating
Notes:
- ⚠️ US ID only needed for download, can log out after
- ⚠️ Using Sora requires US IP connection
- ⚠️ Different channels have different invitation code requirements
7.3 API Quick Integration Tutorial
Step 1: Register APIYI Account
1. Visit https://api.apiyi.com
2. Register account
3. Add funds (recommend ¥50 for testing)
4. Get API Key
Step 2: Install SDK (Python example)
pip install openai
Step 3: Text-to-Video Code Example
import openai
openai.api_base = "https://api.apiyi.com/v1"
openai.api_key = "YOUR_API_KEY"
response = openai.ChatCompletion.create(
model="sora2_video",
messages=[
{
"role": "user",
"content": "A serene sunset over ocean waves,
cinematic shot, warm golden hour lighting"
}
]
)
video_url = response.choices[0].message.content
print(f"Video URL: {video_url}")
Step 4: Image-to-Video Code Example
import openai
import base64
# Read image and convert to base64
with open("image.jpg", "rb") as f:
image_base64 = base64.b64encode(f.read()).decode()
response = openai.ChatCompletion.create(
model="sora2_video",
messages=[
{
"role": "user",
"content": [
{
"type": "image_url",
"image_url": {
"url": f"data:image/jpeg;base64,{image_base64}"
}
},
{
"type": "text",
"text": "Make this image come to life with gentle movement"
}
]
}
]
)
video_url = response.choices[0].message.content
print(f"Video URL: {video_url}")
Step 5: Batch Generation Example
prompts = [
"A cat playing with yarn",
"Coffee being poured into cup",
"Drone view of forest"
]
for prompt in prompts:
response = openai.ChatCompletion.create(
model="sora2_video",
messages=[{"role": "user", "content": prompt}]
)
video_url = response.choices[0].message.content
print(f"{prompt}: {video_url}")
API Parameters:
model: "sora2_video"messages: Standard ChatGPT format- Returns: Video download URL
- Billing: ¥0.8-1/video
Technical Support:
- 📚 Documentation: api.apiyi.com/docs
- 💬 Support: APIYI customer service
VIII. Combined Usage Strategies
8.1 Web + APIYI Combo (Recommended)
For: Budget-conscious users who occasionally need bulk generation
Strategy:
- ✅ Daily use web Plus ($20/month) for regular creation
- ✅ Use APIYI pay-per-use for batch generation when needed
- ✅ Flexible cost control
Cost: $20/month + on-demand API fees
Case Study: Social Media Creator
- Daily web generation of 3-5 videos (within Plus quota)
- Weekly batch generate 50 product demo videos (APIYI ~¥40)
- Total cost: ¥140 + ¥40 = ¥180/month
8.2 Web Pro + APIYI Combo (Professional Grade)
For: Professional creators needing high quality + batch processing
Strategy:
- ✅ Important videos use web Pro (1080p no watermark)
- ✅ Testing and batching use APIYI (720p no watermark)
- ✅ Complementary, cost-effective
Cost: $200/month + on-demand API fees
Case Study: Video Production Company
- Client finals use Pro for HD version (1080p)
- Proposal stage use APIYI batch generate multiple test options (720p)
- Total cost: ¥1400 + API fees
8.3 iOS App + Web Combo
For: Heavy users on both mobile and desktop
Strategy:
- ✅ Use iOS App for on-the-go creation
- ✅ Use web version at home/office for large screen editing
- ✅ Same account, data synced
Cost: Plus/Pro subscription (shared)
Case Study: Full-time Short Video Creator
- Daytime field shoots, use iOS App for on-site generation
- Evening return home, use web for refinement and batch processing
- Social features via iOS App (follow, remix, explore)
IX. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are web and iOS app video quality the same?
Answer: Yes. As long as subscription tiers match (Plus/Pro), video quality is identical:
- Plus: Limited quota, watermarked
- Pro: Unlimited, no watermark, 1080p, up to 20 seconds
The difference is only in user experience and social features.
Q2: Can I use pay-per-video without subscription?
Answer: Yes. Through APIYI apiyi.com pay-per-use, approximately ¥0.8-1/video, no subscription needed, pay for what you use.
Note: APIYI currently offers 720p resolution, no watermark, suitable for budget-conscious or low-frequency users.
Q3: Must I have a US Apple ID for iOS App?
Answer: Yes, Sora App is currently only available on US App Store, requires US ID to download.
Solutions:
- DIY register US ID (free, time-consuming)
- Purchase ready US ID (¥29, quick)
- Use web version directly, no US ID needed
Q4: What's the difference between API and official web version?
Answer:
- APIYI (Third-party): Reverse-engineered web, 720p, no watermark, pay-per-use, ¥0.8-1/video
- Official Web: 1080p (Pro), watermarked (Plus), subscription-based, $20 or $200/month
- OpenAI Official API: Not yet released, expected price ~$0.15/video
Q5: How many videos can Plus subscription generate daily?
Answer: Officially unspecified, based on user feedback:
- Plus: ~100/day
- Pro: Unlimited (or extremely high quota)
- Free: Minimal, virtually unusable
Q6: Are iOS App social features worth it?
Answer: Depends on needs:
- ✅ Worth it: If you enjoy discovering and remixing others' creativity, enjoy social interaction
- ❌ Not worth it: If you just want to generate videos for download, don't care about social
Suggestion: If you don't want to hassle with US ID, use web directly—features suffice.
Q7: What technical level is needed for API?
Answer:
- Basic Use: Need Python/JavaScript basics, can make HTTP requests
- Advanced Use: Need async programming, error handling, batch task management
Beginner-Friendly: APIYI provides detailed documentation and code examples, just follow tutorials.
Q8: Can I use all three methods simultaneously?
Answer: Yes.
- ✅ Web and iOS App share same subscription (Plus/Pro)
- ✅ APIYI bills independently, can run parallel with subscription
- ✅ Video history syncs between web and iOS App
Best Practice: Plus/Pro subscription + APIYI on-demand supplement
X. Final Recommendations
10.1 Regular Users (Non-Technical)
Recommendation: Web Version + ChatGPT Plus
Reasons:
- ✅ Simplest, no US ID needed
- ✅ Great large screen experience
- ✅ $20/month good value
- ✅ Full features, adequate quota
Action: Visit sora.chatgpt.com → Login → Subscribe Plus → Start creating
10.2 Mobile-Heavy Users
Recommendation: iOS App + ChatGPT Plus/Pro
Reasons:
- ✅ Best mobile experience
- ✅ Rich social features
- ✅ Exclusive features like Cameo
Note: Requires dealing with US ID (¥29) + invitation code (¥39, optional)
10.3 Developers/Technical Users
Recommendation: APIYI + ChatGPT Plus Combo
Reasons:
- ✅ API for automation and batching
- ✅ Plus for visual testing
- ✅ Flexible cost control
Tech Stack: Python/JavaScript + APIYI SDK
10.4 Budget-Conscious Users
Recommendation: APIYI Pay-per-Use
Reasons:
- ✅ No subscription, pay as you go
- ✅ ¥0.8-1/video, cost controllable
- ✅ Watermark-free output
Suitable For: Monthly usage < 50 videos
10.5 Professional Creators/Enterprises
Recommendation: Web ChatGPT Pro + APIYI Combo
Reasons:
- ✅ Pro provides 1080p no-watermark HD
- ✅ APIYI provides batch processing capability
- ✅ Professional-grade output quality
Cost: $200/month + API fees
10.6 Trial Users
Recommendation: Web Free + APIYI Small Recharge
Reasons:
- ✅ Web free account for basic features
- ✅ APIYI recharge ¥50 for testing
- ✅ Total cost < ¥100
Suitable For: First-time Sora 2 users, want to test
XI. Summary: Selection Decision Table
| Your Situation | Recommended Method | Monthly Cost | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular user, occasional | Web Plus | $20 (¥140) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Mobile-heavy user | iOS App Plus | $20 + ¥68 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Developer | APIYI + Plus | $20 + on-demand | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Very low budget | APIYI pay-per-use | < ¥50 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Professional creator | Web Pro | $200 (¥1400) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Enterprise batch | Pro + APIYI | $200 + on-demand | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Core Recommendations:
- Beginners: Start with web Plus, simple and easy
- Mobile users: iOS App, but accept setup hassle
- Technical users: APIYI, automation and batch processing
- Budget-limited: APIYI pay-per-use, pay for what you use
- Professional needs: Pro subscription, 1080p no watermark
🎯 Final Recommendation: For most users, we recommend starting with web ChatGPT Plus ($20/month)—full features, adequate quota, no hassle. If usage frequency is very low (< 20/month), pay-per-use through APIYI apiyi.com (¥0.8/video) is more cost-effective with no long-term subscription. The platform supports 720p watermark-free output, suitable for budget-sensitive users.
Next Steps:
- Assess your usage frequency and budget
- Choose corresponding method per table above
- Small-scale test first, then decide whether to upgrade
- Track actual costs, optimize approach
Related Articles:
- 《What Is Sora 2? 5-Minute Quick Guide to OpenAI's Latest Video Generation Tool》
- 《Is Sora 2 Free? Complete Pricing and Usage Cost Analysis》
- 《How to Use Sora 2? Complete Guide to 3 Access Methods (2025 Latest)》
- 《How to Write Sora 2 Prompts? 10 Templates for Mastering Prompt Techniques》
Updated: 2025-10-09
Data Source: OpenAI official release (2025-10-01) + actual testing data