What an AI key is
An AI key is a long code that lets TAKT use an AI company's models on your account. The company keeps track of what TAKT uses and bills you for it.
The companies call it an API key. API is the name for the way one program talks to another, so you can think of the key as a password that only programs use.
Why your own key
You pay the AI company directly, and TAKT adds no markup.
Your key is stored in your Mac's Keychain. It never leaves your Mac except to go to the AI company you chose. TAKT has no server that ever sees it.
Which one to pick
If you are not sure, pick one and start there.
| Provider | Good for in TAKT | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| DeepSeek | Lowest cost, good for everyday building. | Get a DeepSeek key |
| OpenRouter | One key, many AI models. | Get a OpenRouter key |
| Anthropic | Claude, strong at careful plans. | Get a Anthropic key |
| OpenAI | GPT models. | Get a OpenAI key |
| Gemini models, through Google AI Studio. | Get a Google key |
There are no prices here, because they change. Each guide links to the company's own price page.