How to get an API key from LLM websites to run OpenClaw using BlueStacks AI Runtime

What is an API key, and why do I need it?

An API key is a unique string that allows OpenClaw to access an AI model on your behalf. You can generate API keys from supported AI providers and use them to run OpenClaw with the BlueStacks AI Runtime.

• OpenAI 
• Anthropic (Claude) 
• Google Gemini 
• Groq Cloud 
• OpenRouter

NOTE: An API key can be used to access paid services, so treat it like a password and never share it publicly.

How can I generate an API key?

Follow the steps below based on the provider you want to use.

⏩ OpenAI (GPT-4o, GPT-4o mini)

OpenAI uses a prepaid billing system for personal accounts. Your API key will not work until your balance has been funded.

• Go to the OpenAI platform, sign in, and click on API keys in the sidebar.
• Click Create new secret key, give the key a name, and save the key somewhere.
• Open Billing settings, add payment details, and add at least $5 in credits to activate your API usage.

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⏩ Anthropic (Claude)

Anthropic is widely used for long-form tasks and complex reasoning because of its large context windows.

• Open the Anthropic console, sign in, and navigate to API Keys.
• Click Create key, copy the generated key, and save it securely.
• Open Plans & Billing, select the Build plan, and add at least $5 in credits.

NOTE: Enable Auto-reload so OpenClaw does not stop mid-task.

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⏩ Google Gemini

Google provides API access through Google AI Studio. This is one of the easiest ways to get started if you are new to AI APIs.

• Sign in to Google AI Studio using your Google account.
• Click Get API key in the sidebar.
• Click Create API key, then choose a new or existing project.
• Copy the key and store it safely.

NOTE: The free tier allows limited usage per minute. If you want stronger privacy and higher usage limits, link a billing account.

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⏩ Groq Cloud

Groq focuses on extremely fast AI responses using specialized hardware.

• Open the Groq developer console and sign in.
• Select API Keys in the top bar and click Create API key.
• Add a display name for the key and click Submit.
• Copy the key and store it safely.

NOTE: Groq uses usage-based billing, which activates automatically when your usage reaches defined thresholds.

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⏩ OpenRouter (single key for multiple models)

OpenRouter allows you to access multiple AI providers using just one API key. This is useful if you want OpenClaw to switch between models automatically.

• Create an account on OpenRouter.
• Go to Credits and add funds.
• Open Account Settings and navigate to API Keys.
• Click Create new key, copy the key, and store it securely.

NOTE: You can also set per-key spending limits to control costs.

How to use the API key in OpenClaw?

Once you have created your API key:

• Open OpenClaw in BlueStacks AI Runtime.
• Select your preferred AI provider and choose the model you want to use.
• Paste your API key into the provided field, then click Start OpenClaw.

OpenClaw will now be ready to run tasks using your selected AI model.

Things to remember

OpenClaw is free to use, but because it is an autonomous AI assistant, proper configuration is essential. 

• Set a usage limit:  Always set a spending cap in your provider dashboard to avoid unexpected charges.
• Limit token usage: Set a max-tokens limit in OpenClaw to prevent excessively long responses.
• Be careful with community skills: Only install skills from trusted sources and review them before use. Some scripts may try to access your API key.

NOTE: AI providers charge based on usage. Some models offer free tiers that are sufficient for personal use. Always check the provider's pricing page before getting started.