This Stealth Model Makes Claude Code Free. Here's How.

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide for running Claude Code using free, alternative AI models available through OpenRouter. The process involves creating an OpenRouter account, generating an API key, and updating the local '.claude/settings.local.json' file within a project. The creator highlights the ability to experiment with new models like 'Ox Alpha' without direct costs. However, he provides an honest assessment, noting that these free models often lead to performance degradation, increased error rates like 'upstream idle timeout exceeded,' and slower execution times compared to official models. The video concludes with examples of the creator using the setup to perform real-world knowledge work and data analysis, demonstrating that while these free models are suitable for simpler tasks, they can be overmatched by complex, agentic workflows.