Ever since ChatGPT shook up the AI world, everyone's been on the lookout for new powerful AI models that don't break the bank. Although there are some powerful models that are better than ChatGPT, they are all paid.
But recently, DeepSeek launched its new model that is on par with ChatGPT's latest paid model and is offering it completely free, and you can even download the model on your computer. It made some big headlines and caused a big dump in U.S. stock markets.
As the model is pretty efficient, everyone is trying to get the DeepSeek API, but they get stuck along the way. Don't worry, though - getting your API key is actually super straightforward! We will walk you through everything you need to know, from signing up to making your first API call.
In this guide, we'll cover:
Setting up your DeepSeek account (it's easier than you think!)
Getting your API key (just a few clicks!)
Understanding what makes DeepSeek special
Making sense of tokens and pricing
Tips for getting the most out of the service
You can get started in just a few minutes. So let's get started.
Step 1: Create a DeepSeek Account
Visit the DeepSeek website
Click "Sign up" on the login page
Enter your email/phone number and password
Accept the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
Complete the registration process
Step 2: Access the API Platform
After logging in, look for "API Platform" in the top-right corner of the homepage
Click on the "API Platform" button to access the developer dashboard
Step 3: Navigate to API Keys Section
On the left sidebar of the platform dashboard, locate and click "API keys"
You'll see your API keys management page
If you're new, you'll notice there are no existing API keys
Step 4: Generate Your API Key
Click the "Create new API key" button
Enter a name for your API key (e.g., "Test")
The system will generate a unique API key
Copy the key immediately - you won't be able to see it again after closing the window
Store the key securely for future use
Important Notes:
The API key is only visible once during creation
Save your key in a secure location
Never share your API key or expose it in client-side code
DeepSeek may disable leaked API keys automatically
Service Update:
DeepSeek has temporarily suspended API service recharges due to server resource constraints caused by the platform's growing popularity. The suspension aims to maintain service quality for existing users.
While new recharges are paused, users can continue utilizing their existing API balance for calls. The high demand stems from DeepSeek's recent launch of DeepSeek-R1, an open-source model competing with OpenAI's Model o1. The platform expects to resume normal service once infrastructure scaling is complete.
DeepSeek Available Models
DeepSeek offers two main models:
DeepSeek-Chat (upgraded to DeepSeek-V3)
DeepSeek-Reasoner (now DeepSeek-R1)
Both models offer impressive processing power with a 64K token context length. While they default to 4K tokens for outputs, you can adjust this based on your needs. This flexibility ensures you can handle both brief queries and extensive processing tasks.
DeepSeek Token System
Tokens are the building blocks of text processing. Each piece of text you input or receive gets broken down into these smaller units. For English users, a word typically breaks down into 2-3 tokens. Chinese characters usually convert to about 0.6 tokens each. This system allows for precise processing and billing.
Understanding Rate Limits
Unlike many platforms, DeepSeek takes a unique approach to rate limiting - there isn't one. Instead, the system manages traffic naturally through server capacity. During high-traffic periods, your requests remain active, with the server maintaining connection through regular signals. This approach ensures fair access while preventing system overload.
Usage and Pricing Structure
The billing system prioritizes user-friendly management. When you use the API, charges first come from your granted balance before touching your topped-up funds. This setup helps you better track and manage your resource usage. The present DeepSeek API pricing is as follows: it is different for USD and CNY.
However, these rates can change as the DeepSeek model is one of the most popular models in the world, and it also provides many advantages, such as no rate limits. Everyone tries to get the API, and this may result in a price hike. So users should check the official pricing page, as these can be updated based on market conditions and service improvements.
Token Usage Planning
To help manage your token usage effectively, DeepSeek provides a demo tokenizer package. This tool lets you calculate token usage offline, helping you plan your API usage more efficiently. It's particularly useful for projects requiring precise resource allocation. You can use the link below to download the zip file or go to the DeepSeek API Doc page to download directly from the DeepSeek platform.
