LiteLLM
An open-source proxy that gives 100+ model providers one OpenAI-compatible API.
LiteLLM puts one consistent, OpenAI-shaped interface in front of every major model provider. Application code calls one API; swapping providers becomes a config change, not a rewrite.
Run as a proxy server it adds the operational layer too: per-team keys, spend limits, rate limiting, fallbacks, and logging: one control point for all model traffic.
Where it fits
The right layer when a system uses several model providers and you want routing, keys, and spend controlled in one place.
Where it does not fit
Avoidable indirection for a small project locked to a single provider with no plans to switch.
Alternatives to LiteLLM
The closest options on the map, and where each fits instead.
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OpenRouter Hosted model router
Best when you want fast access to many models (to evaluate or switch freely) without setting up an account per provider.
Unlike LiteLLM ProprietaryNot self-hostableHosted APIMaturity: growing
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Portkey AI gateway
A good fit when you want routing and observability from one layer rather than integrating a gateway and a monitoring tool separately.
Unlike LiteLLM Hosted APIMaturity: growing
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Bifrost LLM gateway
A fit when you self-host a gateway under heavy traffic and per-request overhead has to stay minimal.
Unlike LiteLLM Maturity: growing
How it compares
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Worth a look when a team wants routing and observability as one decision. If those are already solved separately, plain LiteLLM is the lighter pick.
Pairs with
Commonly used alongside it.
