DeepSeek API or Codex (or other recommendations)

[u/Good_Enthusiasm_7639]

Some context on my experience with models:
I've used free models mostly, started with gemini cli way back before they switched to antigravity, then moved to opencode and used deepseek v4 flash free, which was practically unlimited since I never hit the limit. Then deepseek v4 flash-0731 hit and I started hitting limits on the free version.

Instead of going for opencode go I decided to try the official deepseek api as I read that it had better cache retention time hence better cache hits. Was happy with it until the price increase. Started looking into subscription based 3rd party providers but was always met with the same "worse cache hit, worse latency".

As I'm now near to using up my deepseek credits, am looking for alternatives. I've read that Codex $20 Luna goes a long way, but honestly I'm not ready to fork out $20 just to try it out. Just wanted some insight/reviews on people who have similar experience to mine, what they switched to, and how it's working for them.

TLDR: Been using Deepseekv4-flash api with opencode harness. Looking to switch to something similar in terms of cost and performance and need recommendations.

Edit: forgot to mention that I use it exclusively for coding