ChatGPT tools that let you bring your own API key

What it does

This is an awesome-list that catalogs ChatGPT API integrations across browsers, desktops, mobile, and CLI tools. Every entry must allow users to supply their own OpenAI API key rather than routing through a middleman’s subscription or pooled account. The list spans Chrome extensions, Emacs packages, Obsidian plugins, macOS utilities, web UIs, and developer libraries.

The interesting bit

The collection standard is the unusual part: the author explicitly rejects tools that don’t expose a custom API key field. That filter turns a generic list into a buyer’s guide for developers who already have OpenAI credits and want to avoid SaaS markups or privacy handoffs.

Key highlights

• Covers niche platforms often ignored by mainstream lists, including Emacs gptel, PopClip extensions, Keyboard Maestro macros, and Apple Shortcuts.
• Distinguishes between self-hosted web apps and hosted services, tagging the former with a green badge.
• Includes a Development section with projects and articles for building your own integrations.
• Maintains a public collection standard and accepts suggestions via PRs or Twitter.
• Publishes updates to a standalone website at awesome-chatgpt-api.top.

Caveats

• A few listed browser extensions also support the unofficial ChatGPT Webapp API, which sidesteps the “bring your own key” requirement the list claims to enforce.

Verdict

Worth bookmarking if you have an OpenAI API key and want to find a client for your specific workflow—whether that’s inside Emacs, a macOS menu bar, or a self-hosted Vercel app. Skip it if you’re looking for a general roundup that includes subscription wrappers or official OpenAI clients.