OpenRouter Setup Guide

OpenRouter is a multi-model aggregation platform that lets you access 100+ AI models with a single API Key.

What is OpenRouter?

OpenRouter is an AI model aggregation service platform with these features:

• Rich models: Aggregates 100+ models including GPT-4, Claude, Llama, and more
• Unified interface: One API Key accesses all models
• Pay per use: Only pay for Tokens used, no monthly fees
• Transparent pricing: Clear pricing for each model

Getting an API Key

Step 1: Register an Account

1. Visit the OpenRouter website
2. Click "Sign In" in the top right
3. Register with Google, GitHub, or email

Step 2: Add Credits

1. After logging in, click the account icon in the top right
2. Go to the "Credits" page
3. Click "Add Credits" to top up
4. Supports credit card and cryptocurrency payments

Step 3: Create an API Key

1. Go to the "Keys" page
2. Click "Create Key"
3. Name your key (e.g., "Chatbox")
4. Copy the generated key

Configure in Chatbox

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Open the Chatbox app
2. Click the "Settings" entry in the bottom left
3. Select "AI Provider" or "Model Settings"

DesktopMobile

Step 2: Add OpenRouter

1. Click "Add Provider"
2. Select "OpenRouter" or "OpenAI API Compatible"
3. Configure the following:
   • API Host: https://openrouter.ai/api/v1
   • API Key: Paste your OpenRouter key

DesktopMobile

DesktopMobile

Step 3: Select a Model

OpenRouter supports many models. Here are some popular choices:

Model IDs change frequently. Verify the latest IDs on the OpenRouter models page or via https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/models.

Pricing

OpenRouter pricing is model-specific and changes as model providers update their rates.

• For the latest per-model prices, check the OpenRouter models page
• Verify the selected model's current price in your OpenRouter dashboard before production usage

Free Models

OpenRouter also offers some free models:

• meta-llama/llama-3.2-1b-instruct:free
• google/gemma-2-9b-it:free
• mistralai/mistral-7b-instruct:free

OpenRouter Advantages

One-Stop Access

No need to register multiple provider accounts. One OpenRouter account accesses:

• All OpenAI models
• Anthropic Claude series
• Google Gemini series
• Meta Llama series
• And many more open-source and commercial models

Flexible Switching

Switch models anytime to compare different results:

• Use cheaper models for daily chat
• Use premium models for complex tasks
• No additional configuration needed

Transparent Billing

• Clear display of Token consumption per request
• Real-time balance and usage history
• No hidden fees

Common Issues

API Key Not Working

Possible causes:

• Key has been revoked
• Insufficient account balance
• Model requires extra authorization

Solutions:

1. Check key status in OpenRouter
2. Confirm account has balance
3. Some models require identity verification

A Model is Unavailable

Possible causes:

• Model temporarily offline
• Requires extra authorization
• Incorrect model ID

Solutions:

1. Confirm model availability on OpenRouter models page
2. Some advanced models require identity verification
3. Check if model ID is correct

Unstable Response Speed

Cause: As a middleware, OpenRouter speed is affected by multiple factors

Optimization tips:

• Choose models marked as "fast"
• Avoid many requests during peak hours
• Try different models

How to Choose Models

Recommendations:

• Daily chat: deepseek/deepseek-chat (cheap)
• Complex tasks: openai/gpt-5.2 or anthropic/claude-sonnet-4.5
• Coding tasks: deepseek/deepseek-coder
• Free trial: Choose models with :free suffix

Usage Tips

1. Start with free models: Experience free models first to understand how the platform works

2. Choose models based on needs:

   • Simple tasks: use cheaper models
   • Important tasks: use premium models

3. Monitor your balance: Regularly check account balance to avoid sudden interruptions

4. Explore new models: OpenRouter frequently adds new models, stay updated

5. Compare models: Try different models on the same task to find the best fit