How I Created My Own ChatGPT Alternative Using Open-Source Models
Last Updated on August 29, 2025 by Editorial Team
Author(s): Abduldattijo
Originally published on Towards AI.
How I Created My Own ChatGPT Alternative Using Open-Source Models
My OpenAI bill hit $247 last month. For a side project. That wasn’t even making money yet.
In this article, the author shares their personal journey of building an AI assistant using open-source models after experiencing high costs with OpenAI. They describe the motivation sparked by their significant bill and outline the challenges faced when transitioning to running models like Llama and Mistral on personal hardware. Through trial and error, the author successfully sets up an efficient AI stack that matches the performance of paid services while emphasizing the satisfaction of having total control over their local AI. The piece also highlights practical applications, cost comparisons, and the broader implications for future AI usage.
Read the full blog for free on Medium.
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