OpenRouter

One integration for several models

OpenRouter is useful for developers who want to call different models from an application. Its quickstart shows requests containing a selected model and conversation messages, authenticated with an API key. Existing OpenAI SDK code can also be pointed at OpenRouter.

Try it in Cherry Studio

With an OpenRouter key, open Settings → Model Provider in Cherry Studio, select OpenRouter and enter the key. Leave the default API address and fetch the model list. As a suggested exercise, ask two models to shorten the same paragraph, then check which facts each retained. Cherry documents switching models within this provider; this exercise is not a measured comparison or a recommendation of a winner.

Check the usage cost

Paid requests consume prepaid credits, and prices depend on the model and provider. OpenRouter charges a fee when credits are purchased. Free models have request limits. These distinctions matter when choosing between a brief experiment and repeated use; a free model is not an unlimited allowance.