# Getting Started

Getting started with Vertical Stream takes **less than two minutes.**

#### **Step 1: Create your account** 

Head to [Stream](https://app.verticalstudio.ai/stream) and sign up. No credit card required.

#### **Step 2: Explore your free credits** 

Every account starts with 10 free credits that refresh daily. Enough to test models and get familiar with the interface.

#### **Step 3: Start a new chat** 

Click the new chat button in the sidebar. You'll see a clean interface with a message input at the bottom.

#### **Step 4: Choose how you want to work**

* **Let Stream decide:** Just type what you want. Our model orchestration agent will select the right model and tools automatically.
* **Take control:** Click the model selector (bottom right) to choose a specific model. Or select a tool from the input bar to force a specific action.

#### **Step 5: Customize your tools (optional)** 

Open Tool Settings from the sidebar to configure which model each tool uses and adjust settings like duration, aspect ratio, or output quality.

#### **Step 6: Compare and iterate** 

Not happy with the output? Switch models and try again, all in the same chat. Compare results until you find what works.

#### **Step 7: Upgrade when you're ready** 

Running out of credits? Upgrade to Pro for €8/month or grab a credit pack top-up. Pay with card or $VERTAI.