Models and Model Providers
A Provider is the AI service source you connect to in Chatbox. Different Providers offer different models. Understanding how they relate helps you make better choices.
Model Vendors
Model vendors are companies that develop and train AI models. Each has its own exclusive models:
| Vendor | Featured Models | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| OpenAI | GPT 5.2, o3, o4-mini | Strong overall capabilities, mature ecosystem |
| Anthropic | Claude 4.5 Sonnet, Claude Haiku 3.5 | Excellent long text processing, nuanced responses |
| Gemini 3 Pro, Gemini 2.5 Flash | Strong multimodal capabilities | |
| DeepSeek | DeepSeek V3, DeepSeek R1 | Great value, strong reasoning abilities |
To use a vendor directly, you need to sign up with each one separately, get an API key from each, and pay each vendor individually.
Aggregator Providers
Aggregator Providers bring models from multiple vendors together, letting you access them all through a single account and a unified interface.
Chatbox AI is an aggregator provider. With a Chatbox AI plan, you get direct access to mainstream models including GPT 5.2, Claude 4.5 Sonnet, Gemini 3 Pro, DeepSeek, and more — no need to register and pay with each vendor separately.
Other aggregator providers:
| Provider | Description |
|---|---|
| OpenRouter | Aggregates 100+ models, one key for all |
| SiliconFlow | China-friendly access, supports multiple models |
Benefits of Aggregator Providers
- All-in-one access: Use models from multiple vendors with a single account
- Unified billing: No need to manage separate bills from each vendor
- Seamless switching: Freely switch between different models without reconfiguring
Local Providers
Beyond cloud services, you can also run open-source AI models on your own computer:
| Provider | Description |
|---|---|
| Ollama | Most popular local model runner, supports various open-source models |
| LM Studio | User-friendly GUI, great for beginners |
Advantages of local Providers:
- Completely free (no API fees)
- Data stays on your machine, privacy guaranteed
- No internet connection required
Cloud vs Local
| Feature | Cloud Providers | Local Providers |
|---|---|---|
| Model Capability | Strong (latest top models) | Medium (open-source models) |
| Requirements | Needs internet | Needs good computer specs |
| Cost | Pay per use | Free (except electricity) |
| Privacy | Data sent to cloud | Data stays completely local |
| Response Speed | Depends on network | Depends on hardware |
How to Choose in Chatbox?
- Use Chatbox AI: The simplest option — one plan gives you access to all mainstream models, no Provider configuration needed
- Bring Your Own Key: If you already have an API key from a model vendor or another aggregator, configure it directly in settings