Q: Trying to Understand Why We're Paying Twice — API Key and Credit Limits?
I really want to buy into this platform—it has so much potential. But there's one thing that's giving me pause, and I’d love some clarification.
We’re required to provide our own OpenAI API key, which means we’re already paying OpenAI directly for usage. Yet we’re still subject to a separate credit system—like being limited to 3,000 AI generations per month. That feels like paying twice for the same thing.
To break it down:
1 credit = 1 AI generation
3 credits = 1 tool created with AI assistance
If we’re already incurring the cost through our own API key, what are we actually paying for with these additional credits? This seems like a real disconnect, and it's a genuine concern that's holding me back from fully investing.
Would appreciate any insights from the team or community—thanks!
Ilya_aii.cx
Edited Jun 13, 2025A: Hi! Thanks so much for your question — it’s a really important one, and I completely understand why it might feel like you're paying twice. Let me clarify.
When you bring your own OpenAI API key, you’re paying OpenAI directly for the raw usage of the model — that means the tokens used during each request. We don’t add any markup on that, and you’re billed by OpenAI at their standard rates.
However, our in-platform credits cover everything around the API call. The entire rest of the service inside aii.cx These features and infrastructure run on our servers and are not part of OpenAI’s billing.
The 3,000 AI generations per month cap exists to ensure stable and sustainable performance for all users — especially since each generation can also trigger our API, database writes, webhooks. For most users, 3,000 is more than enough, but we’re also have an options to go beyond that.
So in short: your OpenAI key covers just the raw LLM usage. Our credit system supports everything that turns those raw responses into usable, reliable, and powerful AI tools inside the platform.
Hope this helps clear things up — happy to answer any other questions!
WonkaPLUSso true :D
creativecontrarianStill, I don’t understand this additional credit system. So many tools like Writessed, Voila, Pismo, etc. have unlimited usage in their highest tier. And none of them use the weak argument of effort or similar around the API key. And here, no API key is required; it works on web, app, and PC software.
So, I would like to know exactly what we are being limited on here?
Sorry my previous answer didn’t meet your expectations. Right now, this is how our system works — and while it may change in the future, we can’t offer unlimited usage on the LTD plan.
We limit only AI generations per month (3,000), which reset monthly. This is to prevent server overload and keep the platform sustainable. It’s enough for 99% of users. Thanks for understanding!