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AI Access
OpenRouter
A model gateway for trying many LLMs through one API, including selected free model options and a free-model router for experimentation.
See how this access route works, what it asks you to set up, and which current terms to check before using it.
May fit if
You want to compare models
Learning, small experiments, model comparison, and early prototypes.
Access observed
Selected free models
OpenRouter describes openrouter/free as a router that sends requests to currently available free models, and also supports :free variants for specific models where a free variant exists.
What you will need
Account and API key
Create an account and API key, then choose a model or the free-model router for an API request.
How access works
One gateway, several model routes
OpenRouter provides one API and a chat interface for models from different providers. Its free-model router chooses from models available without a usage charge at that time; some individual models also have a free variant.
Limits and charges
Free availability can move
Source snapshot, May 2026: OpenRouter docs described free-model limits such as 50 requests per day for accounts that have purchased less than 10 credits, 20 requests per minute, and 1000 free-model requests per day after purchasing at least 10 credits. Check OpenRouter directly before relying on this.
Your data and account
Check the route your prompt takes
Different models can be served by different providers. Review OpenRouter's current data controls and the provider policy for the route you choose before sending private material.
Before relying on it
Keep the experiment replaceable
Free model access can have lower limits, changing availability, provider-side throttling, and temporary unavailability. Do not treat free access as production capacity. Keep the model name, prompts, and fallback behavior easy to change if a free route disappears.
Check current information
OpenRouter source pages
These provider pages are the place to confirm current availability, limits, and pricing.
Continue exploring
Compare this route with the job you need to do.
See other limited or low-cost API paths, or return to the full Access guide for browser, app, API, and local choices.