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Cline periodically offers free model promotions that let you try select models at no cost, up to a limited usage quota. It’s a simple way to explore Cline and experiment with different models before choosing a paid option.
Free model promotions are offered on a rotating, limited-time basis. The specific free models available may change over time.

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How it works

Free models are available to any user with a Cline account. After you use your free model quota, you can continue coding with Cline by switching to either:
  • ClinePass — a flat $9.99/month subscription with 2-5x API rate limits on popular open coding models
  • Cline (usage-billing) — pay-as-you-go access with Cline credits across 100+ models
Both options let you keep working after your free quota is exhausted.

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Where to find free models

You can find free models under both Cline providers:

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Cline (usage-billing)

In the Cline (usage-billing) provider, look for models tagged FREE in the model selector.
  • IDE Extension: Go to IDE extension settings, set API Provider to Cline, and look for free-tagged models.
  • CLI: Go to /settings, select Cline as your provider, and browse available free models.

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ClinePass

During promotional periods, free models are also available through the ClinePass provider.
  • IDE Extension: Go to IDE extension settings, set API Provider to ClinePass, and sign in.
  • CLI: Go to /settings, select ClinePass as your provider.

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Important notes

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API access

Free model usage is not supported through the Cline API. Free models are only available in the Cline IDE Extension and CLI.

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Model improvements

Free model usage may be used to help improve model performance and quality.

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After your free quota

When your free quota runs out, you have several options: