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Bring your own API key (BYOK) AI tools explained

What bring-your-own API keys means, why it lowers cost and keeps model choice, and which AI task tools support BYOK on which plan.

By Parsa Khazaeepoul, co-founder of doozy
Last reviewed September 4, 2026Pricing verified September 4, 2026

Bring your own API key (BYOK) means the software runs on your AI provider key instead of bundling the AI into the subscription price. You pay the provider directly at cost. No markup. You choose the model, you see the real bill, and you switch providers without switching products.

Why it matters

  • You pay at cost. No vendor markup on model usage. Your bill comes from your provider.
  • You control the model. Switch from one provider to another without changing your task tool.
  • It makes free tiers real. If you supply the AI, the product doesn't need to subsidize your inference. That's how Doozy is free forever.
  • You see the real cost. Instead of a bundled subscription, you see exactly what the AI costs per month.

Which tools support BYO keys

Taskade

BYO keys on Enterprise only. Lower tiers bundle the AI into the subscription.

Carly AI

Works through your own API keys for the models it calls.

Saner.ai

Documents a BYO key option on its free tier.

When to bring your own keys

BYO keys make sense when you want to control costs, choose your own models, or use a product without a per-seat AI charge. They are especially valuable for small teams where a $20/seat/month AI add-on adds up fast.

The trade-off: you manage the keys yourself. You create accounts with each provider, save the keys securely, and monitor your usage. If you would rather not touch an API key at all, a bundled subscription is simpler on day one.

Where this is heading

BYO keys are still rare. Most AI task managers bundle the AI into the price and don't offer a way to bring your own. But the model is spreading because it solves a real problem: products that need to include AI in a free tier can't afford to give away inference. BYO keys are how Doozy offers a real free plan instead of a trial.

Frequently asked questions

What is BYO API keys?

You add your own AI provider key. The provider bills you directly. The product charges nothing for AI usage.

Which tools support it?

Doozy (free plan), Carly AI, Saner.ai, and Taskade (Enterprise only).

Is it cheaper?

Usually, yes. You pay the model provider at cost instead of a per-seat markup through the product.

What keys does Doozy need?

OpenRouter for AI, Deepgram for transcription, Composio for app connections. Add only what you need.

Where do I save my keys?

In workspace settings. Encrypted storage. Never paste keys into conversations or to-do descriptions.

How much does it cost with BYO keys?

Whatever your provider charges. Doozy adds nothing. See the pricing comparison.

Can I switch providers later?

Yes. Change your key anytime. No lock-in.

Does Doozy train on my data?

No. Your data stays yours. The learning is per-workspace, visible, and editable.

Sources

  1. Doozy pricing (checked 2026-09-04)
  2. Taskade pricing (checked 2026-09-04)
  3. Carly AI (checked 2026-09-04)