5 min read · Site tutorial
Free models, your own key, and choosing the right LLM
How LMpad connects to OpenRouter, what each tier costs, and when to use which model.
- 1
What OpenRouter does
OpenRouter is a single API for hundreds of language models. LMpad proxies requests so your key never runs in the browser.
Step 1: What OpenRouter does - 2
Try free models first
Free models work without your own key when LMpad's site key is configured. Great for outlines, drafts, and experimentation.
Step 2: Try free models first - 3
Add your key for paid models
Paste an OpenRouter key in Settings to unlock GPT, Claude, Gemini, and other paid models. The key syncs to your account via Turso.
Add API keyStep 3: Add your key for paid models - 4
Set a default model
Choose a default model in Settings so new notes and runs start on your preferred LLM. Free defaults apply when you have no key.
Step 4: Set a default model - 5
Suggested model on each note
Community prompts include a suggested model badge. Override it in the run panel — the suggestion is a starting point, not a rule.
Step 5: Suggested model on each note
Tips
- ✓Use fast free models for structure; upgrade to paid for final polish.
- ✓Clear your key anytime in Settings — LMpad never shows the full key after saving.
- ✓Get a key at openrouter.ai/keys — billing is per model token usage.