What Is the OpenAI API?
The OpenAI API provides programmatic access to OpenAI’s AI models — including GPT-4o, o1, DALL-E, and Whisper. Unlike ChatGPT (the consumer product), the API lets developers and power users integrate these models into their own applications.
API vs. ChatGPT
| Feature | ChatGPT | OpenAI API |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Web/mobile app | HTTP API |
| Pricing | $20/month subscription | Pay per token |
| Customization | Limited | Full (temperature, system prompts, functions) |
| Models | Curated selection | All available models |
| Data usage | May train on conversations | Not used for training |
Getting Started
- Create an account at platform.openai.com
- Generate an API key
- Add billing (pay-as-you-go)
- Start making requests
Pricing (GPT-4o)
| Token Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Input | $2.50 / 1M tokens |
| Output | $10.00 / 1M tokens |
A typical conversation costs fractions of a cent — far cheaper than a $20/month subscription for light-to-moderate use.
OpenAI API in Elvean
Elvean connects to the OpenAI API with your own key — no subscription needed. You get access to all OpenAI models plus the ability to use them alongside Claude, Gemini, and local models in the same conversation.
Elvean brings all these concepts together in one native Mac app — local models, cloud APIs, agentic tools, and more.
Learn more about Elvean