> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cline.bot/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Cline Free Models

> Limited-time free model promotions for users with a Cline account.

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.

<Note>
  Free model promotions are offered on a rotating, limited-time basis. The specific free models available may change over time.
</Note>

## 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](/getting-started/clinepass)** — a flat \$9.99/month subscription with 2-5x API rate limits on popular open coding models
* **[Cline (usage-billing)](/getting-started/cline-provider)** — pay-as-you-go access with Cline credits across 100+ models

Both options let you keep working after your free quota is exhausted.

## Where to find free models

You can find free models under **both** Cline providers:

### 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.

### 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.

## Important notes

### API access

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

### Model improvements

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

## After your free quota

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

| Option                                                   | Best for                                                                               |
| -------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| [ClinePass](/getting-started/clinepass) (\$9.99/mo)      | Frequent users who want reliable access to curated open models with higher rate limits |
| [Cline (usage-billing)](/getting-started/cline-provider) | Flexible, pay-as-you-go access across 100+ models                                      |
| [Bring your own API key](/provider-config/anthropic)     | Users who already have API keys from other providers                                   |

## Related

* [ClinePass](/getting-started/clinepass)
* [Cline (usage-billing)](/getting-started/cline-provider)
* [Authorization](/getting-started/authorizing-with-cline)