01What Claude Code free means and how it works

Claude Code free means you can use Anthropic's coding assistant without paying. Normally Claude Code costs money per API call, but you can replace the paid model with a free one. The trick is to plug a free model into Claude Code using tools like Olama or Open Router.

In this episode Julian shows three ways to do this. You pick a free model, connect it to Claude Code, and use it just like the paid version. No subscription needed.

02Three methods to run Claude Code for free

There are three main options to run Claude Code free. Each works differently:

  • Olama cloud model: Use GLM-5.1 from Olama's cloud. It is free as long as you stay within token limits. Cloud models are faster and more powerful.
  • Olama local model: Download Jemma 4 and run it on your computer. It is completely free with no token limits because it is local.
  • Open Router free API: Elephant Alpha is a free API on Open Router. It is in testing and gets replaced monthly. You can connect it to Claude Code via Spawn.

03How to set up Claude Code free with Olama cloud

Follow these steps to use Claude Code free with an Olama cloud model:

  1. Go to olama.com and download Olama.
  2. Open your terminal and paste the Olama install command.
  3. On the Olama site, go to Models and scroll to GLM-5.1.
  4. Copy the command shown for GLM-5.1.
  5. Paste that command into your terminal. It launches Claude Code with GLM-5.1 plugged in.
  6. Type a test prompt like "Are you working?" to confirm it runs.

You can see "GLM-5.1 cloud" appears in Claude Code. This setup is one-click and free within token limits.

04How to set up Claude Code free with Olama local model

Running Claude Code free with a local model keeps your usage unlimited. Here is the setup:

  1. Open the Olama models page and find Jemma 4.
  2. Copy the command for Jemma 4 and paste it into your terminal. This downloads the model.
  3. Press Control + C to exit after download.
  4. Run the model directly with: olama run jemma 4.
  5. Test it by asking if it works.
  6. In the same terminal, paste: olama launch claude model jemma 4. Confirm when asked.

Now Claude Code uses Jemma 4 locally. Julian shows this is working because the model responds to prompts.

05How to use Elephant Alpha free API with Claude Code

The third way to get Claude Code free is via the Elephant Alpha API on Open Router. Julian explains this method:

  1. Go to Open Router and select Elephant Alpha. It is a free API while in testing.
  2. Use Spawn to connect the API to Claude Code. Spawn edits your config file to add the Open Router API key.
  3. On Open Router, choose Claude Code under Agents, then pick your setup.
  4. Copy the generated connection command and paste it into your terminal.
  5. Authorize the connection when prompted.

Julian notes that Elephant Alpha is free now but will be replaced by another stealth model soon, similar to past models like Pony Alpha or Hunter Alpha.

06Results, tests and comparisons from the episode

Julian tested all three methods during the episode. Each method worked immediately. With GLM-5.1 cloud, the model answered "Yes I'm working, how can I help you today?" and showed "GLM-5.1 cloud" in Claude Code.

With Jemma 4 local, the model also confirmed it was working.

Cloud models like GLM-5.1 are faster and more powerful but have token limits. Local models like Jemma 4 have no limits but run on your computer. Elephant Alpha is free in testing but gets replaced each month.

Julian says that every month a new stealth model appears, so you always have a free option.

07Tips, limits and mistakes to avoid with free Claude Code

When using Claude Code free, keep these tips in mind:

  • Token limits: Cloud models on Olama are free only if you stay within token limits. If you run out, switch to a local model.
  • Local model choice: Jemma 4 is free forever because it runs locally. You do not need internet after download.
  • API expiration: Elephant Alpha is temporary. Be ready to switch when the next free model appears.
  • Setup errors: Make sure you copy commands exactly and authorize connections. Julian emphasizes following the steps precisely.

Julian warns that cloud models can hit token caps if you use them heavily. Local models avoid this completely.

08Who Claude Code free is for and why it matters

Claude Code free is for developers, students, and anyone who wants to try coding with AI without paying. You get the same interface and features as the paid version. Julian mentions that inside the AI Profit Boardroom community, members use these setups daily and get help on weekly coaching calls.

This matters because AI coding tools are usually expensive. Free access lowers the barrier. You can test ideas, build projects, and learn without a subscription.

Julian also has step-by-step video guides for each method in the community.