How to Use Claude API with Cline
Cline is the most popular AI coding assistant for VS Code. It uses Claude models for autonomous coding — writing files, running terminals, and fixing bugs. Here's how to set it up with Qubax's 83% cheaper Claude API in under 2 minutes.
Why Qubax for Cline?
Cline burns through tokens fast — it sends full file contents and gets long code completions. At OpenRouter prices, a day of heavy Cline usage can cost $5-10. On Qubax, the same usage costs $0.33/1M input tokens — that's 83% cheaper than OpenRouter's $2.00/1M.
Step 1: Get Your API Key
- Sign up at qubax.ai/register — you get $1 free credits
- Go to API Keys in your dashboard
- Click Create Key and copy it (starts with
qbx_live_)
Step 2: Configure Cline
Open VS Code → Cline extension settings:
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| API Provider | OpenAI Compatible |
| Base URL | https://api.qubax.ai/v1 |
| API Key | qbx_live_YOUR_KEY |
| Model | claude-sonnet-5 |
Step 3: Start Coding
That's it. Cline will now use Claude Sonnet 5 through Qubax. Try:
"Create a Python FastAPI server with JWT auth and a /users endpoint"Cline will write the files, install dependencies, and run the server — all billed at 83% off retail.
Cost Comparison
| Workload | OpenRouter | Qubax | Monthly Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light coding (200 req/day) | ~$96.00 | ~$16.06 | $79.94 |
| Heavy coding (500 req/day) | ~$240.00 | ~$40.15 | $199.85 |
Other Models That Work with Cline
- [GPT-5.6 Terra](/models/gpt-5.6-terra) — 99% off, great for simple tasks
- [DeepSeek V4 Pro](/models/deepseek-v4-pro) — 67% off, strong reasoning
- [GLM 5.2](/models/glm-5.2) — 93% off, fast and cheap
FAQ
Is this OpenAI-compatible? Yes. Qubax uses the standard OpenAI API format. Any tool that supports custom base URLs works.
Can I use Claude Opus 5? Yes — just change the model to claude-opus-5. See Claude Opus 5 API for pricing.
How do I pay? Deposit USDC on Base chain. Your balance deducts automatically as you use the API. No credit card needed.
Start coding with Claude at 83% off — [get $1 free credits](https://qubax.ai/register).
