Managed credits vs bring-your-own-key
Use the credits included with your plan, or connect your own AI account so generations cost nothing here.
There are two ways to power AI, and you pick one under How do you want to power AI? on the AI & Generative page. Both produce the same kind of drafts. The difference is who pays for the generation.
What are the two options?
- Our Optimized AI (managed credits). Nothing to configure. We pick a fast, cost-efficient model and each generation spends credits based on length. Your plan tops up free credits every month.
- Bring Your Own Key (BYOK). You connect your own OpenAI, Anthropic, or Google Gemini account. Generations run directly on your key at no credit cost here, and that provider bills you instead.
Which should I choose?
Stick with managed credits if you want zero setup and generate occasionally. Switch to BYOK if you generate heavily, already have a provider account, or want a specific model.
Tip. Managed credits stay available as a fallback. If your own key ever fails, AI drops back to managed credits so your work isn't blocked.
Common questions
Is BYOK cheaper than managed credits?
It depends on your usage. With BYOK you pay your provider directly and spend no credits here, which suits heavy use. Managed credits are simpler and free up to your monthly grant.
Can I switch between the two later?
Yes. Change the choice under How do you want to power AI? and save. Your connected key stays on file when you switch back to managed credits.
Do both options write the same way?
The output style follows your Brand voice & writing style settings either way. The underlying model differs, so wording varies, but tone and context carry across both.