Descriptions:
Hasan Aboul Hasan demonstrates how to use Claude Code at no cost by routing it through OpenRouter’s free model tier rather than Anthropic’s paid API. The configuration involves creating a `.claude/settings.json.local` file in the project directory, adding an OpenRouter API key, specifying a free model such as MiniMax M2.5, and setting OpenRouter as the base URL — with zero cost confirmed through OpenRouter’s activity log dashboard.
Beyond the setup steps, the video covers three workflow tips for building real applications with smaller free models. First, keep individual files under 600 lines to prevent AI context window overload and reduce hallucinations. Second, understand the core technical concepts of your application before prompting — the AI cannot protect against problems the developer hasn’t thought to mention. Third, work one task per session, test manually, and push to GitHub after each completed feature to maintain rollback points throughout development.
The presenter illustrates the approach by describing CardioFlow, a cardio workout generator built in approximately one hour using this free setup, and references his broader modular file structure from learnwithhasan.com as a practical example. While free models like MiniMax M2.5 are less capable than Claude’s flagship tiers, the structured workflow tips help offset their limitations for developers building focused, well-scoped applications.
📺 Source: Hasan Aboul Hasan · Published April 11, 2026
🏷️ Format: Tutorial Demo
