Token compression guide

LLM token compression before inference

LLM token compression removes waste before the model spends compute on it. The goal is to preserve the evidence needed for the answer while cutting everything else.

By Arjun Shah - Creator of SuperCompress - Updated 2026-07-03

What is LLM token compression?

LLM token compression reduces the number of tokens sent to a language model during inference while preserving the information needed to answer the current query.

In a typical RAG query, 60-80% of retrieved context may be irrelevant to the specific question. Those tokens still cost money and add latency.

Token compression methods compared

MethodOracle RecallLatencyExtra Cost
SuperCompress100%~60ms CPUNone
Summarization61%~63ms + LLM callFull LLM cost
Truncation (FIFO)25%~57msNone

Integrating with your LLM pipeline

pip install supercompress
from supercompress import Compressor
comp = Compressor()
result = comp.compress(context, query)

Frequently asked questions

Does token compression require a model download?

No. SuperCompress uses a tiny CPU policy and does not require a model download or GPU.

Does it work with local models?

Yes. Compression is model-agnostic and works before any model call.

Build with less context

Put compression in front of your next LLM call.

Use the hosted API or run SuperCompress locally. Keep the evidence, drop the token waste, and measure the savings before it reaches your model.

Get an API keyRead the guide