What ChatGPT Model Should You Use? A Clear Comparison Guide
≈ 3 min reading time
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
| Model | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-4o | Great for most tasks | General advanced use, balanced performance |
| GPT-4o-mini | Faster for everyday tasks | Quick replies, fast prototyping |
| GPT-4o-mini-high | Great at coding and visual reasoning | Code-heavy tasks, image input/output |
| GPT-4.5 | Good for writing and exploring ideas (preview) | Content writing, ideation |
| o3 | Uses advanced reasoning | Logical tasks, slow-paced problem solving |
🧠 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
| Need | Best Model |
|---|---|
| Speed + balance | GPT-4o |
| Everyday short tasks | GPT-4o-mini |
| Coding or visual tasks | GPT-4o-mini-high |
| Writing & ideation | GPT-4.5 (Preview) |
| Logical reasoning | o3 |
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