OpenRouterOpenRouter · model-routervs
LiteLLMCommunity / OSS · model-router
Two ways to put one API in front of many models. OpenRouter is a hosted router with 500+ models; LiteLLM is self-hosted OSS you operate yourself.
agentlist.io · spec diff · verified 2026-09-25 — list prices only, not benchmarks
Spec diff
Pick which
pick OpenRouter if
You want zero-ops routing, per-model pricing, and a large free model pool.
pick LiteLLM if
You want to self-host the proxy, keep keys in your infra, and customize the gateway.
watch out
OpenRouter charges a ~5.5% credit fee; LiteLLM enterprise features are quote-based.
Feature notes
- OpenRouter
- 01500+ models / 80+ providers
- 0225+ free models
- 03Spend controls
- 04BYOK passthrough
- 05Pay-as-you-go
- LiteLLM
- 01OpenAI-compatible proxy
- 02Self-host
- 03Budgets and routing
- 04Open source
Frequently asked
OpenRouter or LiteLLM — which should I pick?
Two ways to put one API in front of many models. OpenRouter is a hosted router with 500+ models; LiteLLM is self-hosted OSS you operate yourself. Pick OpenRouter if: You want zero-ops routing, per-model pricing, and a large free model pool. Pick LiteLLM if: You want to self-host the proxy, keep keys in your infra, and customize the gateway.
Is OpenRouter or LiteLLM cheaper?
OpenRouter: PAYG at provider list price; 5.5% fee on credit purchases; 25+ free models. LiteLLM: Free OSS self-host; Enterprise quote-based. List prices as of 2026-09-25; usage pools and seat terms change the real cost.
Does OpenRouter or LiteLLM run locally?
OpenRouter hosting: cloud. LiteLLM hosting: local, cloud. Interfaces differ too: OpenRouter exposes api, LiteLLM exposes api.
Are OpenRouter and LiteLLM still maintained?
OpenRouter: actively maintained. LiteLLM: actively maintained. Statuses are re-verified each catalog refresh (2026-09-25); see the changelog for the full history.