Ann NgAnn Ng
5 min read

How to use Sonar from Perplexity with API Key on TypingMind

Learn how to access and use Sonar with your Perplexity API key through TypingMind. Get started with this powerful AI model in minutes.

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.

Official Documentation: https://docs.perplexity.ai

Sonar Overview

Model NameSonar
ProviderPerplexity
Model IDsonar
Release DateJan 1, 2024
Last UpdatedSep 1, 2025
Knowledge Cutoff2025-09-01
Context Window128,000 tokens
Max Output4,096 tokens
Pricing /1M tokens$1 input
$1 output
Input Modalitiestext
Output Modalitiestext
Capabilities
Temperature Control

Complete Setup Guide

1

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.

  1. Visit Perplexity's API console
  2. Sign up or log in to your account
  3. Navigate to the API keys section
  4. Generate a new API key (copy it immediately as some providers only show it once)
  5. Save your API key in a secure password manager or encrypted note

⚠️ Important: Keep your API key secure and never share it publicly. Store it safely as you'll need it to connect with TypingMind.

2

Configure TypingMind with Perplexity API Key

  1. Open TypingMind in your browser
  2. Click the "Settings" icon (gear symbol)
  3. Navigate to "Models" section
  4. Click "Add Custom Model"
  5. Fill in the model information:
    Name: sonar via Perplexity (or your preferred name)
    Endpoint: https://api.perplexity.ai/chat/completions
    Model ID: sonar
    Context Length: Enter the model's context window (e.g., 128000 for sonar)
    Perplexity Endpoint URL input fieldsonarhttps://api.perplexity.ai/chat/completionssonar via Perplexityhttps://www.typingmind.com/model-logo.webp128000
  6. Add custom headers by clicking "Add Custom Headers" in the Advanced Settings section:
    Authorization: Bearer <PERPLEXITY_API_KEY>:
    X-Title: typingmind.com
    HTTP-Referer: https://www.typingmind.com
  7. Enable "Support Plugins (via OpenAI Functions)" if the model supports the "functions" or "tool_calls" parameter, or enable "Support OpenAI Vision" if the model supports vision.
  8. Click "Test" to verify the configuration
  9. If you see "Nice, the endpoint is working!", click "Add Model"
3

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
The best frontend AI chat for sonar via OpenRouter API KeyThe best frontend AI chat for sonar via OpenRouter API KeysonarThe best frontend AI chat for sonar via OpenRouter API Key

💡 Pro tips for better results:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a subscription to use Sonar?

No! With Perplexity API, you pay only for what you use with no monthly subscription. Add credits to your Perplexity account and pay as you go. TypingMind is also a one-time purchase, not a subscription.

How much will it cost to use Sonar?

Sonar costs $1/1M input tokens and $1/1M output tokens. A typical conversation might cost $0.01-0.10 depending on length.

Can I use other models besides Sonar?

Yes! With Perplexity API + TypingMind, you can access all Perplexity models. Switch between them instantly in TypingMind.

Is my data private and secure?

Yes! TypingMind stores conversations locally (web version in browser, desktop version on your device). Perplexity handles API calls securely. Check Perplexity's data policy for specifics.

Can I use Sonar for commercial projects?

Yes! Check Perplexity's terms of service for specific commercial use policies. TypingMind supports commercial use.