---
url: /en/blog/atcbu8su/index.md
---
# Complete Tutorial for Building an AI Crayfish for $2 (OpenClaw + Zeabur)

### 1. Before You Start

This solution is suitable for:

* Beginners with no coding background
* Those who just want to test AI Crayfish
* People who don't want to invest too much cost initially

The core principle is just one sentence:

**Get the workflow running at the lowest cost first.**

Wait until you are actually using it before considering upgrading the server.

### 2. Prepare Two Things

1. Zeabur Server
2. ChatGPT Monthly Subscription Model

Let's get started.

### 3. Step 1: Purchase a $2 Server

Go to the [zeabur](https://zeabur.com) official website to register an account.

Select the lowest configuration plan.

Credit cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay are supported.

Enter "sakura" at checkout to enjoy a 10% discount~

#### Server Purchase Illustration

![3-1](https://s2.ixacg.com/2026/03/05/1772695503.avif)

It is recommended to choose a US region server; some AI models cannot be used in other regions.

#### Create Project

After entering the console:

* Click "Add Project"
* Select Template
* Select **openclaw**

![3-2](https://s2.ixacg.com/2026/03/05/1772696074.avif)

![3-3](https://s2.ixacg.com/2026/03/05/1772696101.avif)

No need to fill in the API for now, just deploy directly.

![3-4](https://s2.ixacg.com/2026/03/05/1772696130.avif)

#### Enter Terminal for Initialization

Wait for the project activation to complete:

![3-5](https://s2.ixacg.com/2026/03/05/1772696158.avif)

Enter the command:

```bash
openclaw onboard
```

![](https://s2.ixacg.com/2026/03/05/1772696225.avif)

Pause here for now, let's go prepare the model.

### 4. Step 2: Purchase ChatGPT Model

The reason for recommending ChatGPT is simple:

* Supports monthly subscription
* Controllable cost
* Suitable for beginners

Purchase the $20/month plan to use Codex. Next, select Codex in the model configuration.

### 5. Generate Access Domain

Enter the Zeabur backend:

* Open Network
* Generate Domain
* Wait for it to take effect

Then find the Web UI link and open it.

### 6. Essential Security Settings

This is the most easily overlooked step.

If you do not disable public network access:

* Others may access your interface
* Consuming your model quota

Recommendations:

* Delete the public exposed interface
* Or disable public access permissions

You must do this.

### Summary

With a $2 server, you can:

* Have your own AI Crayfish
* Connect to a Feishu bot
* Run AI services continuously

The key is not the configuration level, but:

**Get the workflow running first.**

It is not too late to upgrade once you are actually using it.