Ways to use AI without paying
The free ways to use AI, where each one runs out, and a simple test for whether free is enough for your task.
You can get a lot done without a subscription if you know the free options and where they run out. Details change often, so check each provider's current page and do not trust a list from last year.
Free tiers of hosted assistants
Most large providers offer a free way to chat with a model. Expect limits: fewer messages per period, smaller or slower models, fewer features than paid plans. That suits occasional questions and learning, and it frustrates in long working sessions.
Free API credit and trial access
Some providers give new accounts a little free API usage, and some offer rate-limited free access to selected models. They are handy for trying an idea in code. They can shrink or end without notice, so never build something that depends on them.
Open-weight models on your own computer
Models with published weights run locally through tools such as Ollama or LM Studio. After the download there is no per-message cost and nothing leaves your machine. You pay in hardware: a small model runs on an ordinary laptop, a large one needs a lot of memory. Running your first local model walks through it, and quantisation explains why a compressed model fits where the full one does not.
Where free runs out
Rate limits, shorter input, weaker answers on hard tasks, and no promise of availability. When a task matters, test the free option on a real example before you commit.
If you pay later
Prefer usage-based billing with a spending cap over an open-ended plan, and keep inputs short. token explains how usage is counted.
Notes from the author
Run the same three real tasks on a free option and a paid one. If the free one gets them right, that settles it.
For information only, not professional advice. You use it at your own risk and we are not liable for any loss or damage. See the disclaimer.
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