What ChatGPT Model Should You Use? A Clear Comparison Guide

August 2025 Update: Everything Is Now GPT-5 (Here’s What It Means for You)

GPT-5 Is Now the Default Model

As of August 7 2025, OpenAI has launched GPT‑5, which replaces nearly all prior models (like GPT‑4o, GPT‑4.5, o3, o4-mini, and more) across the ChatGPT interface - wikipedia.

GPT‑5 brings:

• Smarter reasoning ("Thinking" mode)
  
• Faster responses
  
• Sharper writing and coding skills, better accuracy, and fewer hallucinations 

What Happened to Older Models?

• Most older models are no longer selectable for regular users 
• Enterprise, Team, and Edu users can still access legacy models-but only for a limited transition period, which they must enable manually 

User Backlash & Partial Reinstatements

There has been significant backlash - many users, especially in Plus tier, "missed GPT‑4o for its unique “voice” and creativity" - The Verge . In response:

• OpenAI’s Sam Altman confirmed GPT‑4o will be available again for Plus users for a temporary period while usage is monitored.

Temporary Workarounds & Reddit Fixes

Some users successfully regained GPT‑5 visibility by clearing cookies and site data in Chrome and then reloading the ChatGPT page.

Others noted they could access GPT-5 on mobile before desktop, underscoring that rollout can be device-dependent.

What Should You Do?

Stick with GPT-5 — it’s OpenAI’s smartest, most refined model yet.

If you relied on GPT-4o's tone, act fast- Plus users now have temporary access.

Use the Chrome cookie workaround if GPT-5 isn't appearing.

For complex tasks, make sure you’re using GPT-5 Thinking.

Want more help - troubleshooting or tuning for GPT-5? Dive into our full guide: GPT-5 Not Showing Up in ChatGPT? Here’s What’s Going On.

Recommendations before GPT-5 was released:

Choosing the right ChatGPT model can significantly impact your business productivity, content quality, and overall efficiency. In this structured guide, we clearly outline the differences between GPT-4, GPT-4o, GPT-4o-mini, GPT-4o-mini-high, GPT-4.5, and o3 to help you select the best AI model for your needs.

ChatGPT Models Comparison Table

🧠 GPT-4o: Balanced Power

Why use it:

• Handles most tasks with great speed and depth
• Reliable for long-form content and smart automation
• Ideal for professionals and creatives

⚡ GPT-4o-mini: Speed-Focused

Why use it:

• Very fast for common everyday tasks
• Perfect for short-form writing, brainstorming, and chatbots
• Light on resources but still powerful

👨‍💻 GPT-4o-mini-high: Visual and Code-Oriented

Why use it:

• Specifically tuned for coding and visual inputs
• Works well with code-related tools and structured data
• Best for developers, designers, and AI-assisted workflows

✍️ GPT-4.5 (Preview): Writing & Exploration

Why use it:

• Enhanced writing and ideation model
• Works well for marketers, writers, and brand strategists
• Still in preview; expect changes

🧩 o3: Deep Reasoning Model

Why use it:

• Slower but great at logic and multi-step reasoning
• Suitable for analysis, logic-heavy content, or advanced scripting

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