VARIANT-1 is the workspace; the model is your choice. Models differ in skill, speed, price, and which tools they handle well, so it is worth trying a couple. You can switch the model for a chat whenever it is idle.
On your own machine
Download a model in GGUF format and point Settings → Local models at it. VARIANT-1 runs it with llama.cpp: a copy ships with the app, and it can download and manage a newer build for you. Prefer LM Studio? Connect its local server instead.
Local models cost nothing per message, but they use your computer’s memory and graphics card, and bigger models need more of both. Browsing and online tools still use the internet, even when the model itself is local.
With an API key
Add a key under Settings → API keys. Dozens of providers are built in, including OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Gemini, xAI, OpenRouter, DeepSeek, Fireworks, Hugging Face, Azure AI Foundry, and GitHub Copilot.
Running your own server, or using a provider that isn’t listed? Any OpenAI-compatible endpoint can be added under Custom endpoints. Either way, the provider bills you directly and sets its own limits.
With an account you already have
Some subscriptions can be used directly. Sign in with a ChatGPT subscription, or connect a desktop service you are already signed in to, such as Ollama or Nous Portal through Hermes Agent.
Signing in uses the access your plan includes; it does not unlock free usage. Google AI subscription sign-in also needs an authorised app configuration that the preview doesn’t include, so use another route for Google for now.
Backup models
Settings → Model routing lets you line up backup models and choose separate models for side jobs such as summaries and reading images. Backups are off until you turn them on, and saving a route never changes the model you picked for a chat.
Who you pay
| Part | Comes from | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| The app | VARIANT-1 | Free, from the download page. |
| Local models | Your computer | No per-message fee; uses your hardware and power. |
| Cloud models | Your provider | Their prices, plans, and limits. |
There is no VARIANT account, subscription, or balance to top up.
If you hit a limit
Read the error first. A used-up quota, an expired sign-in, a rejected request, and a local model that won’t load all need different fixes. If you switch to another model or provider, check what it can do and what it costs before carrying on. Troubleshooting walks through the common cases.