49 AI API providers audited in 2026: 28 are still genuinely free
A Reddit field report/discussion from r/hermesagent. Plain version: I reviewed providers across LLMs, search, voice, embeddings, RAG, image, video and hosted inference to separate real recurring free tiers from trials and signup credits.
Directly relevant to your agent stack. This can affect Hermes behavior, upgrade timing, plugins, gateway surfaces, or ideas worth stealing for OAC/DestructoR666.
Source excerpt
I reviewed providers across LLMs, search, voice, embeddings, RAG, image, video and hosted inference to separate real recurring free tiers from trials and signup credits. The rule is simple: an API only counts as 🟢 if you can keep using it for free on a recurring basis, without depending on one-time credits or a mandatory payment card. Result as of September…