Keyless Nodes: AI Integration Without API Keys

Use powerful AI models instantly — no API keys, no setup.

With Keyless Nodes, you can tap into top AI providers like OpenAI, Claude, Gemini, Grok, and Perplexity without managing API keys or juggling billing across platforms. Just plug in and go.

Keyless Nodes run on BuildShip credits, giving you immediate access to powerful LLMs and AI APIs without the hassle of creating accounts, generating and juggling individual API keys, and managing credits on different billing platforms. It’s the fastest way to experiment, prototype, and ship AI-powered features.

Prefer more control or want to optimize for scale? You can seamlessly BYOK (Bring your own API Keys) whenever you're ready. This hybrid model gives you the best of both worlds: quick-start simplicity and cost-effective flexibility.

How to Use Keyless Nodes

Keyless nodes are designed to be plug-and-play, meaning you can use them without the need for any API keys.

Navigate to the Node Explorer and look for the special Keyless Markers by clicking on the Node Info button. These markers indicate that the node can be used without requiring any API keys.

Once the node is added to your workflow, you can start using it right away:

• Click on "Key" icon located in the node menu bar
• Find and select the multi-colored key labeled "Use Credits"

The node will automatically use the credits from your BuildShip account to pay for the resources used in the workflow.

Now you can start using the node without any API keys, via node testing, workflow testing or in production, allowing you to focus on building rather than managing API keys across multiple platforms.

Using Your Own API Keys with the Keyless Nodes

While keyless nodes offer convenience, you may prefer to use your own API keys for certain services. This approach gives you greater control and can reduce credit usage for your project.

To use your own keys with keyless-compatible nodes:

• Click on the "Key" icon on the node menu bar
• Either select a previously added key or click the "Add Key" button to securely save a new one to be used with the service across your project.

Pricing and Credit System

The table below shows approximate word counts you can process with 10,000 BuildShip credits using various models:

You can check out the detailed pricing info on our pricing page (opens in a new tab).

Credit Usage

• Credits are automatically deducted based on the service token usage
• Each service has its own credit rate based on model capabilities
• You can monitor credit usage in real-time from your account dashboard

Cost Comparison

• Using credits: Pay-as-you-go with BuildShip credits, BuildShip handles payment to the service provider
• Using own keys: Pay directly to the service provider
• Tip: For high-volume production workloads, switching to your own API keys can be more economical than using BuildShip's keyless service.

Best Practices for AI Integration

1. When to Use Keyless Nodes

   • During development and testing
   • For low-volume production workloads
   • When you want to avoid managing multiple API keys

2. When to Use Your Own Keys

   • For high-volume production workloads
   • When you have existing API key subscriptions
   • When you need specific rate limits or configurations

3. Credit Management

   • Set up credit alerts to avoid unexpected charges
   • Monitor usage patterns to optimize costs
   • Consider switching to own keys for frequently used services

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use keyless nodes for production applications?

Yes, keyless nodes can be used in production, but we recommend using your own API keys for high-volume production workloads to optimize costs.

How do I monitor my credit usage?

You can monitor your credit usage in real-time through your BuildShip account dashboard, which shows detailed usage statistics and credit consumption.

What AI models are available through keyless nodes?

BuildShip supports keyless integration with popular AI models including OpenAI, Anthropic, Grok, Perplexity, and more. New models are regularly added to the platform.

Can I switch between using credits and my own API keys?

Yes, you can easily switch between using credits and your own API keys at any time through the node's key configuration menu.