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PerplexityHow to use Sonar with your Perplexity API key on TypingMind
Learn how to access and use Sonar with your Perplexity API key through TypingMind. Get started with this AI model in minutes.
Fast web-grounded Sonar for current answers, citations, and lightweight retrieval
Perplexity AI is an AI-powered search engine that combines large language models with real-time web search to deliver accurate, cited answers with up-to-date information. Key features include Pro Search (access to GPT-5, Claude 4, Gemini 2.5 Pro, Grok 4, and proprietary Sonar models), Deep Research (autonomous multi-step research synthesizing hundreds of sources into comprehensive reports with PDF export), Comet Browser (free AI-powered Chromium browser with conversational web control and sidecar assistant for summaries and automation), and API access for enterprise integration.
Pro subscribers enjoy unlimited Deep Research queries, advanced model selection, domain-specific searches, file uploads, and image generation/editing tools, while free users get limited access to core features with real-time citations. Access at perplexity.ai with API documentation available for Pro users.
See the official Perplexity documentation for more details.
Sonar Overview
| Model Name | Sonar |
| Provider | Perplexity |
| Model ID | sonar |
| Model Logo | Get the logo URL |
| Release Date | Jan 1, 2024 |
| Last Updated | Sep 1, 2025 |
| Knowledge Cutoff | 2025-09-01 |
| Context Window | 128,000 tokens |
| Max Output | 4,096 tokens |
| Pricing /1M tokens | $1.00 input $1.00 output |
| Input Modalities | text |
| Output Modalities | text |
| Capabilities | Temperature Control |
Complete Setup Guide
Get Your Perplexity API Key
First, you'll need to obtain an API key from Perplexity. This key allows you to access their AI models directly and pay only for what you use.
- Visit Perplexity's API console
- Sign up or log in to your account
- Navigate to the API keys section
- Generate a new API key (copy it immediately as some providers only show it once)
- Save your API key in a secure password manager or encrypted note
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 Perplexity API Key
Option 1: Use the built-in Perplexity AI provider (recommended)
The quickest way. TypingMind already has Perplexity AI set up, so you only need to add your API key.
- Open TypingMind and click "Models" in the left sidebar.
- Search for Perplexity AI.
- Click the settings (gear) button next to Perplexity AI.
- Paste your API key and save.
Option 2: 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:Sonar via Perplexity(or your preferred name)Model ID:sonarfor example (check Perplexity model list)Context Length: Enter the model's context window (e.g., 128000 for sonar)
Set up authentication
In the "Authentication" tab, set the connection details:
API Type:OpenAI Chat Completions APIEndpoint URL:https://api.perplexity.ai/chat/completionsAuthentication Type:API Key via HTTP HeaderHeader Key:AuthorizationHeader Value:Bearer <PERPLEXITY_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 Sonar
Now you can start chatting with Sonar through TypingMind:
- Select Sonar 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 Sonar with web search, code execution, and more (How to use plugins)
Why TypingMind + Perplexity?
Chat with Sonar and 200+ other models in one workspace, using your own Perplexity API key.
Best-in-class UI
TypingMind's interface is far superior to standard chat UIs.
Model flexibility
Switch between Sonar and 200+ models instantly.
Cost control
Pay only for what you use through Perplexity.
One-time purchase
Buy TypingMind once, use forever with any Perplexity model.
Data privacy
Your conversations are stored locally by default, not on external servers.
Plugins, MCP, Skills & AI agents
Extend Sonar with web search, image generation, and custom AI agents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a subscription to use Sonar?
No. With your own Perplexity 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 Sonar?
Sonar costs $1.00/1M input tokens and $1.00/1M output tokens via Perplexity. A typical conversation costs around $0.01-0.10, depending on length.
Can I use other models besides Sonar?
Yes. Any model your Perplexity 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 Sonar 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 Perplexity with your API key, so check Perplexity's data policy for how it handles API requests.
