Free API Hub
Free AI API Directory: Credits, OpenAI Compatibility, and Developer Free Tiers
A focused hub for free LLM APIs, API credits, OpenAI-compatible endpoints, China availability, token packages, and developer-friendly AI deals.
Quick comparison
| Provider | Free credits | China access | API | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeepSeek | $5 | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / coding / reasoning |
| Qwen (Alibaba) | 7000 万 tokens（新用户一次性；DashScope/Bailian 控制台为准） | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / coding / reasoning |
| Grok (xAI) | $25/月 | Depends | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / coding / reasoning |
| ChatGLM (Zhipu AI) | 500万 tokens | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / coding / image |
| Tencent Hunyuan | 100万 tokens | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / image / video |
| Shanghai Telecom Token Package | 1 元约 25 万额度点（低价套餐，待实测） | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / api / compute |
| MiniMax | ¥15 | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / audio / video |
| Groq | Free tier（永久免费） | Depends | OpenAI-compatible / similar | chat / coding / reasoning |
| Cloudflare Workers AI | 每天 10000 神经元（永久有效） | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | api / chat / image |
| NVIDIA Build (NIM API) | 无限制（已取消额度限制） | Direct | OpenAI-compatible / similar | api / chat / coding |
New: free credits and token package tracker
Free Credits Tracker
AI API Free Credits Tracker
Prioritize no-card access, regional availability, and whether the quota is enough for prototyping. Always verify official dashboards before production.
| Provider | Free credits / package | Card | China access | Expiry | Claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeepSeekOpenAI compatible | Signup credits / low-cost APICheck dashboard | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check official terms | Open → |
| GroqOpenAI compatible | Free developer API quotaFree tier, rate limits vary | No card / low friction | Needs testing | Ongoing, limits may change | Open → |
| Google GeminiOpenAI compatible | Gemini API free tierFree tier, model and region limits vary | No card / low friction | Needs testing | Ongoing, check official quota | Open → |
| OpenRouterOpenAI compatible | Free models and gateway creditsSome models are free | No card / low friction | Needs testing | Model pool changes often | Open → |
| SiliconFlowOpenAI compatible | Free models / signup creditsCheck SiliconFlow dashboard | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check official terms | Open → |
| Zhipu GLMOpenAI compatible | GLM free / trial creditsCheck BigModel dashboard | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check official terms | Open → |
| Kimi / MoonshotOpenAI compatible | Moonshot / Kimi trial quotaCheck dashboard | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check official terms | Open → |
| DoubaoOpenAI compatible | Volcano Ark trial quotaCheck Volcano Ark dashboard | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check official terms | Open → |
| Tencent HunyuanOpenAI compatible | Tencent Cloud Hunyuan trial quotaCheck Tencent Cloud dashboard | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check official terms | Open → |
| Shanghai Telecom Token PackageOpenAI compatible | Token quota-point packageReported ¥1 for about 250k quota points, mobile-bill payment | No card / low friction | China-friendly | Check package terms | Open → |
Recommended starting points
DeepSeek API free credits
Signup credits, low pricing, OpenAI SDK compatibility, and strong coding/reasoning models.
Qwen free API
Alibaba Bailian credits, Chinese/coding strength, and compatible-mode endpoint.
Tencent Hunyuan API
Tencent Cloud credits, China-friendly access, and OpenAI-compatible usage notes.
NVIDIA Build free API
NIM models, free developer API access, and GPU/LLM experimentation.
Shanghai Telecom token package
Track the ¥1 / 250k quota-point telco package, mobile-bill payment, model support, expiry, and effective cost per million tokens.
Answer-first question pages
What is the best free AI API without a credit card?
Answer-first shortlist of free AI APIs you can test without a credit card: OpenRouter free models, SiliconFlow, Zhipu GLM, Qwen credits, Groq, and Cloudflare Workers AI.
What is the cheapest LLM API right now?
Compare the cheapest LLM API choices by real use case: DeepSeek, Qwen, SiliconFlow, OpenRouter, Groq, self-hosting, and free-tier fallback strategy.
What is the best OpenAI-compatible API alternative?
A practical guide to OpenAI-compatible API alternatives: DeepSeek, Qwen, SiliconFlow, Zhipu, Groq, OpenRouter, and local options. Includes swap checklist and FAQs.
Can developers in China use the Claude API?
Answer-first guide for Claude API access from mainland China: direct access limits, compliant alternatives, API relay choices, and China-direct models such as Qwen, DeepSeek, and Zhipu.
How do I set up Qwen or GLM API with the OpenAI SDK?
Set up Qwen DashScope and Zhipu GLM with OpenAI-compatible SDKs. Includes endpoints, steps, model choices, free credits, and FAQ.
Grok API free credits: did the xAI credits program end?
Answer-first guide to xAI/Grok API free credits: whether the old credits program ended, what to verify in xAI Console, setup, limits, and fallback APIs.
How much does the DeepSeek API cost, and is there a free tier?
Answer-first DeepSeek API pricing guide: free/signup credits, off-peak pricing, model choice, cost controls, and fallback links for production teams.
What is the cheapest LLM API for coding agents?
Answer-first guide to the cheapest LLM API for coding agents: DeepSeek, Qwen, GLM, Groq, OpenRouter, self-hosting tradeoffs, setup steps, and cost controls.
Where can I get a free AI API key for testing?
Get a free AI API key for testing without wasting time: no-card options, smoke-test checklist, provider links, and when to move to a paid fallback.
How do I set up Qwen API for a coding agent?
Set up Qwen API for coding agents with DashScope compatible mode: endpoint, model config, smoke test, retry limits, cost controls, and fallback links.
How should I use DeepSeek API off-peak pricing to save money?
Answer-first guide to DeepSeek API off-peak pricing: what to verify in official docs, when discounts matter, batching strategy, cost math, and fallbacks.
Is running a local LLM cheaper than using an API?
Answer-first cost guide comparing local LLM hosting with cheap hosted APIs such as DeepSeek, Qwen, SiliconFlow, Groq, and OpenRouter. Includes decision rules and FAQ.
Is Grok API free, and is it the same as Groq API?
Answer-first comparison of Grok API and Groq API free access: xAI credits, Groq developer limits, OpenAI-compatible setup, pricing checks, and fallback strategy.
Which OpenAI-compatible API should I use for Cursor or coding agents?
Answer-first guide for using OpenAI-compatible APIs in Cursor, OpenClaw, Claude Code-style tools, and coding agents. Covers Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, Groq, and fallback routing.
Can you use NVIDIA NIM as a free OpenAI-compatible API?
Answer-first guide to NVIDIA NIM / NVIDIA Build free OpenAI-compatible API testing: setup path, model choice, limits, Cursor/agent use, and production fallback options.
How do you fix GLM API Unauthorized errors?
Troubleshoot GLM / Zhipu API Unauthorized errors: API key format, base_url, model name, account region, billing, compatible clients, and fallback providers.
What is the best OpenAI-compatible API for China-based developers?
Choose a China-friendly OpenAI-compatible API: compare Qwen, DeepSeek, Zhipu GLM, SiliconFlow, OpenRouter, and gateway fallback by access, credits, setup, and production risk.
What is the best free LLM API for OpenClaw?
Answer-first shortlist of free and cheap LLM APIs for OpenClaw and agent loops: Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, Groq, OpenRouter, NVIDIA NIM, and one-key relay fallback.
Should you use an LLM gateway or direct provider APIs?
Answer-first comparison of LLM gateways versus direct provider APIs: cost, markup, fallback, logs, latency, model access, compliance, and when to use OpenAI-compatible routing.
Should you use Qwen or DeepSeek API for coding?
Answer-first Qwen vs DeepSeek API comparison for coding agents: price, credits, China access, OpenAI-compatible setup, model strengths, and fallback strategy.
What is the best Claude Code API alternative in China?
Answer-first guide for Claude Code-style workflows in China: compliant alternatives using Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, OpenAI-compatible endpoints, and relay fallback without gray-market keys.
What is the cheapest API for a long-running AI agent?
Answer-first guide to picking low-cost APIs for long-running AI agents: DeepSeek, Qwen, GLM, free routes, fallback routing, retry budgets, and OpenAI-compatible setup.
Which OpenAI-compatible API works best with RooCode, Cline, and Kilocode?
How to use OpenAI-compatible APIs in RooCode, Cline, and Kilocode: base_url, model names, no-card tests, DeepSeek/Qwen/GLM routes, and troubleshooting.
What is the best free OpenAI-compatible API without a credit card?
Answer-first guide to free OpenAI-compatible APIs without a credit card: base_url swap, provider shortlist, smoke test steps, limits, and upgrade paths.
What is the cheapest LLM API if you need fallback routing?
Answer-first guide to choosing cheap LLM APIs with fallback routing: why raw token price is not enough, how to test retries, and when to use a gateway.
Should I set up Qwen or Zhipu GLM API first?
Answer-first Qwen and Zhipu GLM API setup comparison for China-friendly developers: compatible endpoints, credits, SDK steps, FAQ, and fallback CTA.
What is the best AI API if you need cost tracking and fallback?
Answer-first guide to AI APIs and gateways with cost tracking, fallback routing, budget alerts, and OpenAI-compatible migration paths.
What should China-based developers use if Claude API is unavailable?
Answer-first Claude API China access guide: official availability check, what not to do, and compliant alternatives like Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, and OpenAI-compatible gateways.
When should you stop using free AI API credits and switch to production billing?
Answer-first guide to when free AI API credits are enough, when they become risky, and how to migrate to production billing with budget controls.
What OpenAI-compatible API should I use for Cline, RooCode, and KiloCode?
Answer-first setup guide for OpenAI-compatible APIs in Cline, RooCode, and KiloCode with base_url, model, streaming, tool calls, key safety, budgets, and fallback.
What is the best free OpenAI-compatible API for agents?
Choose a free or no-card OpenAI-compatible API for AI agents: Qwen, DeepSeek, SiliconFlow, Zhipu, Groq, OpenRouter, and gateway fallback rules.
How do you stop an AI agent from burning API budget?
Answer-first AI agent budget controls: max steps, token caps, retry limits, fallback routing, per-user logs, daily caps, and OpenAI-compatible gateway setup.
Can Qwen replace Claude Code as a coding API backend?
Answer-first guide to using Qwen as a Claude Code-style alternative with compatible endpoints, model tests, budgets, and fallback routing.
How should I combine DeepSeek, Qwen, and GLM APIs?
How to design a China-friendly LLM API stack with DeepSeek, Qwen, GLM, routing rules, fallback, cost logs, and OpenAI-compatible clients.
Which OpenAI-compatible API alternatives support tool calling and JSON mode?
Answer-first checklist for choosing an OpenAI-compatible API alternative that supports tool calls, JSON mode, streaming, error shapes, and fallback routing.
Is it safe to use shared or resold AI API keys?
Answer-first guide to AI API key safety: shared-key risks, reseller red flags, safe server-side storage, rotation, budget caps, and compliant alternatives.
How do you monitor AI API cost per customer?
Answer-first guide to LLM cost attribution by customer, workspace, feature, agent run, route, model, retries, outcome, budget alerts, and gateway routing.
Does the Grok API still offer free credits?
Answer-first check for Grok API free credits in 2026: where to verify xAI credits, what to avoid, and fallback APIs for prototypes.
Why does the GLM API return unauthorized?
Answer-first troubleshooting for Zhipu/GLM API 401 errors: API key, base_url, model permission, headers, quota, client defaults, and compatible-agent setup.
Does DeepSeek API have a free tier, and what does it cost?
Answer-first DeepSeek API pricing guide: free credits, official prices, cache/off-peak discounts, production budget checks, and fallback options.
Which no-credit-card LLM API works with the OpenAI SDK?
Answer-first guide to no-card LLM APIs that work with the OpenAI SDK: provider shortlist, base_url setup, smoke tests, limits, and production fallback.
Is the Claude API available in China, and what should developers use instead?
Answer-first guide for Claude API availability in China: official supported-country check, what not to do, and Qwen/DeepSeek/GLM alternatives.
How do DeepSeek cache and off-peak pricing affect real API cost?
Answer-first DeepSeek API cost guide covering cache hits, off-peak rules, retries, free credits, budget alerts, and fallback routing.
Should you use Qwen or GLM API for coding agents?
Answer-first comparison of Qwen and Zhipu GLM APIs for coding agents: compatible endpoints, model fit, China access, pricing checks, and fallback setup.
Can I replace OpenAI by only changing base_url?
Answer-first checklist for replacing OpenAI with an OpenAI-compatible API by changing base_url, key, and model, plus smoke tests for tools, JSON, streaming, and fallback.
What is the best no-card LLM API for Vercel AI SDK?
Answer-first guide to no-card and free OpenAI-compatible APIs for Vercel AI SDK: baseURL setup, provider shortlist, smoke tests, FAQ, and production handoff.
What is the cheapest API for Cursor custom models?
Answer-first guide for cheaper Cursor custom model APIs: OpenAI-compatible endpoints, coding smoke tests, budget caps, and fallback recommendations.
What should you use if Grok API free credits are not available?
Answer-first Grok API credits guide: how to verify current xAI credit status, what not to trust, and free or low-cost API alternatives.
What should a startup use when Claude API country is not supported?
Answer-first guide for startups when Claude API country support blocks signup: official checks, shared-key risks, Qwen/DeepSeek/GLM alternatives, and gateway handoff.
Is DeepSeek API still cheapest if pricing changes?
Answer-first guide to DeepSeek API pricing, official checks, cache hits, smoke tests, fallback rules, and production CTA.
How do you fix Qwen or GLM unauthorized errors?
Answer-first troubleshooting for Qwen DashScope and Zhipu GLM compatible endpoints.
What is the best no-card API for a chatbot prototype?
Answer-first guide for chatbot builders: no-card APIs, compatible baseURL, smoke tests, FAQ, and CTA.
What is the best LLM API for OpenClaw agents?
Compare free and low-cost LLM API options for OpenClaw agents, including Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, OpenRouter-style gateways, and OpenLLMAPI fallback routing.
How do you choose a production LLM gateway with cost tracking and fallback?
A production checklist for LLM gateways with fallback routing, cost tracking, budget alerts, logs, and OpenAI-compatible migration paths.
Qwen vs DeepSeek API for coding agents
Compare Qwen and DeepSeek APIs for coding agents, including OpenAI-compatible setup, cost checks, Mainland China access, and fallback routing.
How can I get a free AI API key without billing setup?
Answer-first guide to getting a free AI API key without billing setup, including no-card providers, OpenAI-compatible smoke tests, limits, and production handoff.
What is the best OpenAI-compatible API for production agents?
Answer-first guide to choosing an OpenAI-compatible API for production agents, including tool calls, JSON mode, fallback, budgets, and provider links.
How should China developers combine Qwen, DeepSeek, and GLM APIs?
Answer-first guide to building a China-friendly LLM API stack with Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, compatible endpoints, fallback rules, pricing checks, and CTA.
Should you wait for Grok API credits or use another free LLM API?
Answer-first guide to Grok API credits, current verification steps, promo-code risk, and free or low-cost alternatives such as Qwen, DeepSeek, Groq, and OpenRouter.
What free LLM API can I use for a SaaS chatbot without a credit card?
Answer-first guide to choosing a free or no-card LLM API for a SaaS chatbot, with OpenAI-compatible setup, smoke tests, limits, and production handoff.
What should you do if DeepSeek API pricing changes again?
Answer-first guide for DeepSeek API price-change searches: official pricing checks, off-peak/cache rules, alternatives, and fallback routing.
How do I fix Qwen API 401 in OpenAI-compatible mode?
Answer-first Qwen API 401 troubleshooting guide for DashScope compatible mode, OpenAI SDK baseURL, model names, permissions, and fallback setup.
What free AI API can I use for a Next.js chatbot without a credit card?
Answer-first guide to building a Next.js chatbot with a free or no-card AI API, OpenAI-compatible baseURL, smoke tests, limits, and production handoff.
What is the cheapest LLM API for a customer support chatbot?
Answer-first guide to choosing the cheapest LLM API for support chatbots using per-conversation cost, fallback, quality checks, and provider links.
Which custom API should China developers use for Cursor-style coding tools?
Answer-first guide to using Qwen, DeepSeek, GLM, or a routed OpenAI-compatible endpoint as Cursor/custom coding-agent API backends in China.
How do I use an OpenAI-compatible API with Vercel AI SDK?
Answer-first setup guide for using an OpenAI-compatible API with Vercel AI SDK, including baseURL, model checks, streaming, JSON mode, providers, and CTA.
What free LLM API should I use for a small-business chatbot?
Answer-first guide to choosing a free or cheap LLM API for a small-business chatbot with no-card testing, pricing checks, fallback, and budget controls.
Which OpenAI-compatible API should I use for a WhatsApp bot?
Choose and test an OpenAI-compatible API for a WhatsApp bot: baseURL, server-side keys, latency, fallback, pricing, and budget alerts.
How do I set up Qwen or Zhipu GLM with an OpenAI-compatible API?
Answer-first Qwen DashScope and Zhipu GLM API setup checklist for China developers using OpenAI-compatible base_url, model names, and smoke tests.
What should I use if Grok API free credits are gone?
Answer-first fallback guide when Grok API credits are unavailable: verify xAI billing, avoid stale promo claims, and test cheap compatible APIs.