Exa Deep Research
by Exa
Search API with asynchronous deep research agent runs
Reviewed by the the30top research team · Last reviewed 2026-10-27
Overview
Exa is a search API for AI, and its Agent product runs asynchronous deep research that returns structured outputs with citations and can draw on data providers such as Crunchbase, ZoomInfo and Similarweb. Effort levels run from Minimal ($0.012 per request) to X-high ($1.00), with Ultra billed on usage. It is a developer product, so analysts need engineering support to use it, and the free allowance is modest at $10 of credits a month.
Our verdict
A flexible, well-priced research backend for builders. Not a tool you hand to an analyst.
Best for
Engineering teams that want to build research into their own products or agents.
Avoid if
You want a ready-made research interface for non-technical analysts.
Pros
- Pay per run with clear effort levels
- SOC 2 Type II listed
- Grants of up to $1,000 for startups and education
Cons
- Developer product only
- Costs scale with effort level
- HIPAA and zero data retention need the Enterprise plan
Key capabilities
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Exa Agent run cost?
From $0.012 per request at Minimal to $1.00 at X-high, with Ultra billed on usage.
Does Exa have a free plan?
Starter is free with $10 of credits each month plus a $10 onboarding bonus.
Is Exa SOC 2 compliant?
The pricing page lists SOC 2 Type II on the Developer plan, and zero data retention with HIPAA on Enterprise.