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APIcuts vs LiteLLM

LiteLLM is an open-source, MIT-licensed LLM proxy that you host yourself, with an enterprise tier for SSO, audit logs and support. apicuts is a managed gateway where we do the optimization work, with at least 20% lower all-in cost guaranteed after our fee.

Quick answer

Choose LiteLLM if you want full control and have engineers to run it. Choose apicuts if you want the savings without operating a gateway, or keep LiteLLM and add apicuts behind it.

At a glance

apicutsLiteLLM
What it isManaged LLM API gateway with done-for-you cost optimizationOpen-source LLM proxy and SDK that you self-host
Price10% of verified savings. No retainerFree to self-host under the MIT license; enterprise pricing on request
Who runs itWe do, on Cloudflare's global network, or in your own cloud on requestYour team, in your own cloud
Savings guaranteeAt least 20% lower all-in cost after our fee, or you pay nothingNone: savings depend on how you configure it
Optimization workDone for you by an optimization engineerYou configure caching, routing and budgets yourself
SetupOnboarding call, live in 1 dayDeploy and maintain the proxy yourself
Best forTeams that want a lower bill without running a gatewayPlatform teams that want full control and self-hosting

When LiteLLM is the better fit

When apicuts is the better fit

Can you use both?

Yes. Add apicuts to LiteLLM as an OpenAI-compatible model endpoint. Your LiteLLM keys, routing and logging stay as they are, and apicuts handles the savings. See integrations.

Frequently asked questions

Is apicuts a LiteLLM alternative?

Yes, if you'd rather not host a proxy yourself. It also works alongside LiteLLM as an OpenAI-compatible upstream.

Is LiteLLM free?

According to its website, the LiteLLM gateway is MIT-licensed and free to self-host, with a paid enterprise tier.

Do I have to remove LiteLLM to use apicuts?

No. Point a LiteLLM model at your apicuts endpoint and keep everything else.

LiteLLM details checked on October 30, 2026 from its own website. Prices change, so check their site for current terms.

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