How to Get an API Key for Elvean
Elvean works the moment you open it — a built-in demo key lets you start chatting right away, no setup required. When you’re ready for unlimited use and every model, you add your own API key.
This guide shows the fastest way to do that.
Do I even need an API key?
Local models need no key at all. If you run models on your Mac — using Elvean’s built-in local models or by connecting Ollama, LM Studio, or MLX — there’s nothing to set up here. No key, no account, no cost, fully offline. API keys are only for cloud models like GPT, Claude, and Gemini.
For cloud models, you don’t even need a key to start. Every new install comes with a demo key so you can try Elvean immediately. You’ll want your own key when you:
- Run out of demo messages
- Want unlimited usage
- Want access to every model (GPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, and 300+ more)
- Prefer to pay providers directly at cost
Your key is stored in the macOS Keychain — encrypted, on your device, never sent to Elvean’s servers. Elvean is private by default.
The easiest path: one OpenRouter key
OpenRouter is a single gateway to 300+ models from every major provider. One key replaces signing up with OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and others separately — which is why we recommend it for most people.
- Go to openrouter.ai and sign up (Google, GitHub, or email).
- Open the Keys page.
- Click Create Key, give it a name like “Elvean,” and copy it.
- Add a few dollars of credit on the Credits page. OpenRouter is prepaid — you only spend what you use, and most models cost a fraction of a cent per message.
That’s it. One key, every model.
Adding your key to Elvean
- Open Settings (⌘,) → Providers.
- Pick your provider (e.g. OpenRouter).
- Paste your key into the API Key field.
- Elvean validates it instantly — a green status dot means you’re connected.
New models appear in the model picker right away. You can switch between any of them mid-conversation with @ mentions.
Other providers
Prefer to go straight to one provider? Each works the same way — create a key, paste it into Settings → Providers.
| Provider | Get your key | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OpenAI (GPT) | platform.openai.com/api-keys | Add a payment method under Billing first; the key is shown only once — copy it immediately. |
| Anthropic (Claude) | console.anthropic.com/settings/keys | Optionally set a monthly credit limit when you create the key. |
| Google (Gemini) | aistudio.google.com/apikey | Generous free tier; create the key in Google AI Studio. |
| Groq | console.groq.com/keys | Very fast inference, free tier available. |
| xAI (Grok) | console.x.ai | Requires an xAI account with credits. |
Any OpenAI-compatible endpoint works too — add it as a custom provider in Settings.
What will it cost?
With your own key you pay the provider directly, at cost — Elvean takes no cut and adds no markup. For typical chat use that’s usually a few cents a day or less, far cheaper than most subscriptions. Each provider lets you set spending limits so there are no surprises.
Want to use models for free? Run them locally — Elvean has built-in local models you can download right in the app, or connect Ollama, LM Studio, or MLX. No key, no cost, fully offline.
Troubleshooting
“Invalid API key” Double-check you copied the entire key with no extra spaces. For OpenAI, make sure you’ve added a payment method — keys won’t work without billing enabled.
Key validates but messages fail You’re likely out of credit. Add funds on your provider’s billing/credits page.
I lost my key Keys are shown only once. Just create a new one and paste it in — there’s no downside to regenerating.
Next steps
- Run models locally with no key at all — see Ollama setup
- Speed up your workflow with keyboard shortcuts
- Learn what an API key actually is