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How API Keys Work
Managed model access is ready by default. Advanced users can optionally add their own supported AI provider key.
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Your helper needs an AI model to think with. BrainRoad-managed model access is connected automatically, so an ordinary customer never needs to find or paste an API key.
There are two deliberate paths:
- Managed access is the default. The trial includes $5; Pro includes a fresh $5 each calendar month; Pro top-ups add $11 for $10.
- Bring your own key is advanced. Use it only when you want direct provider billing or broader model choice.
Managed Access
When your account is first set up, BrainRoad creates one budget-limited OpenRouter credential for that account and installs it server-side. It is never returned to the browser, placed in Helm arguments, logged, or shared with another account.
- Included value: $5 during the trial and a fresh $5 each calendar month on Pro.
- Managed models: xAI’s Grok 4.5, with MoonshotAI’s Kimi K2.6 as fallback.
- Where you see it: the Billing page shows the managed balance and offers prepaid top-ups on Pro.
When the balance reaches zero, new managed model work pauses. Nothing is deleted: your Business Brain, settings, Inbox, and review history all stay put.
Adding your own key
Your own provider keys live in the dashboard’s advanced Settings area.
Choose a provider, paste its secret, and save. An optional validation result is tri-state: accepted, rejected, or unverified when the provider cannot answer authoritatively. See Choosing a Provider for supported choices.
Who pays for what
| Cost | Who pays |
|---|---|
| Trial managed model use ($5.00) | Included by BrainRoad |
| Pro managed model use ($5 each calendar month) | Included by BrainRoad |
| Pro prepaid top-up ($10 adds $11) | You, paid once through Stripe |
| Usage on your own provider key | You, billed directly by that provider |
| Hosting, the Business Brain, and the review workflow | Covered by your BrainRoad plan |
Managed access never creates a postpaid overage. If you choose your own key, its provider billing is separate and you should set limits in that provider’s dashboard. For plan details, see Plans and Pricing.
Related docs
- Choosing a Provider — which providers are supported and which to pick
- Managing Keys — update, rotate, or remove keys later
- Plans and Pricing — what the subscription covers