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OpenRouterHow to use OpenAI: Codex Mini with your OpenRouter API key on TypingMind
Learn how to access and use OpenAI: Codex Mini with your OpenRouter API key through TypingMind. Get started with this AI model in minutes.
codex-mini-latest is a fine-tuned version of o4-mini specifically for use in Codex CLI. For direct use in the API, we recommend starting with gpt-4.1.
OpenRouter is a unified API gateway that provides access to 400+ AI models from 50+ providers through a single OpenAI-compatible endpoint, eliminating vendor lock-in and simplifying multi-model integration.
Key features include automatic fallbacks (seamlessly switching to backup models if primary fails), smart model routing with :floor (cheapest) and :nitro (fastest) options, standardized API normalization across all providers, and multi-modal support for text and images.
OpenRouter uses pass-through pricing at exact provider rates plus a 5% platform fee (5.5% on credits), offers 13+ free models with daily limits, consolidated analytics dashboards, and enterprise-grade privacy controls with no code changes needed to switch between models like GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, Llama, and DeepSeek.
OpenAI: Codex Mini Overview
| Model Name | OpenAI: Codex Mini |
| Provider | OpenRouter |
| Model ID | openai/codex-mini |
| Model Logo | Get the logo URL |
| Release Date | May 16, 2025 |
| Context Window | 200,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 100,000 tokens |
| Pricing /1M tokens | $1.50 input $6.00 output $0.375 cache read |
| Input Modalities | image, text |
| Output Modalities | text |
| Capabilities | ReasoningTool CallingStructured Output |
Complete Setup Guide
Get Your OpenRouter API Key
First, you'll need to obtain an API key from OpenRouter. This key allows you to access their AI models directly and pay only for what you use.
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Go to openrouter.ai, click Sign In, and create a free account.
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Open API Keys in the OpenRouter dashboard and click Create API Key.
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Give the key a name, for example
TypingMind, and copy it. It starts withsk-or-v1-.
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Optional: open Credits and click Add Credits ($5 minimum, paid by card or crypto). Credits never expire, and some models are free to try without them.
Sometimes, this provider will require you to add a payment method to your account before you can use your API key to chat with AI. So, to avoid any hiccups, make sure you've got a payment method set up and ready to go!
Important: Keep your API key secure and never share it publicly. Store it safely as you'll need it to connect with TypingMind.
Configure TypingMind with OpenRouter API Key
Option 1: Use the built-in OpenRouter provider (recommended)
The quickest way. TypingMind already has OpenRouter set up, so you only need to add your API key.
- Open TypingMind and click "Models" in the left sidebar.
- Search for OpenRouter.
- Click the settings (gear) button next to OpenRouter.
- Paste your API key and save.
Option 2: Import from OpenRouter
Add OpenRouter models as custom models. TypingMind fills in the endpoint, authentication, and model details for you.
- Open TypingMind, click "Models" in the left sidebar, then click "Add custom model".
- Select "Import OpenRouter".
- Paste your OpenRouter API key and click "Check API Key".
- Select OpenAI: Codex Mini from the list. You can pick several models at once.
- Click "Import models".
Option 3: Add the model manually
If you can't find the provider or model ID in the official list, you can add the model manually:
Open the Models page
Open TypingMind, click "Models" in the left sidebar, then click "Add custom model" in the top right corner.
Enter the model details
Keep "Create Manually" selected and fill in the model details:
Name:OpenAI: Codex Mini via OpenRouter(or your preferred name)Model ID:openai/codex-minifor example (check OpenRouter model list)Context Length: Enter the model's context window (e.g., 200000 for openai/codex-mini)
Set up authentication
In the "Authentication" tab, set the connection details:
API Type:OpenAI Chat Completions APIEndpoint URL:https://openrouter.ai/api/v1/chat/completionsAuthentication Type:API Key via HTTP HeaderHeader Key:AuthorizationHeader Value:Bearer <OPENROUTER_API_KEY>
Add pricing (optional)
Open the "Pricing" tab and enter the model's input, output, and cache prices per 1M tokens so TypingMind can estimate your usage costs.
Check the capabilities
In the "Capabilities" tab, keep "Auto check capabilities on save" on so TypingMind detects supported features like plugins, image input, and thinking, or enable them manually.
Test and save
Click "Test & Save" to verify the connection and add the model.
Start chatting with OpenAI: Codex Mini
Now you can start chatting with OpenAI: Codex Mini through TypingMind:
- Select OpenAI: Codex Mini from the model dropdown menu
- Start typing your message in the chat input
- Enjoy faster responses and better features than the official interface
- Switch between different AI models as needed
💡 Pro tips for better results:
- Use specific, detailed prompts for better responses (How to use Prompt Library)
- Create AI agents with custom instructions for repeated tasks (How to create AI Agents)
- Use plugins to extend OpenAI: Codex Mini with web search, code execution, and more (How to use plugins)
Why TypingMind + OpenRouter?
Chat with OpenAI: Codex Mini and 200+ other models in one workspace, using your own OpenRouter API key.
Best-in-class UI
TypingMind's interface is far superior to standard chat UIs.
Model flexibility
Switch between OpenAI: Codex Mini and 200+ models instantly.
Cost control
Pay only for what you use through OpenRouter.
One-time purchase
Buy TypingMind once, use forever with any OpenRouter model.
Data privacy
Your conversations are stored locally by default, not on external servers.
Plugins, MCP, Skills & AI agents
Extend OpenAI: Codex Mini with web search, image generation, and custom AI agents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a subscription to use OpenAI: Codex Mini?
No. With your own OpenRouter API key, you pay only for what you use, with no monthly subscription. TypingMind is also a one-time purchase, not a subscription.
How much does it cost to use OpenAI: Codex Mini?
OpenAI: Codex Mini costs $1.50/1M input tokens and $6.00/1M output tokens via OpenRouter. A typical conversation costs around $0.01-0.10, depending on length.
Can I use other models besides OpenAI: Codex Mini?
Yes. Any model your OpenRouter API key can access works in TypingMind, and you can switch between it and models from other providers in the same chat.
Is my data private when using OpenAI: Codex Mini with TypingMind?
TypingMind stores your conversations locally (in your browser on the web version, on your device in the desktop app). Your messages are sent to OpenRouter with your API key, so check OpenRouter's data policy for how it handles API requests.
What if OpenAI: Codex Mini is unavailable?
OpenRouter allows you to configure fallback models. If OpenAI: Codex Mini is down, it can automatically route to your backup choice. You can also manually switch models in TypingMind anytime.
How do I cancel or get a refund?
There are no subscriptions to cancel. Unused OpenRouter credits remain in your account forever.
