Your Guide To ChatGPT-5 and Older Model Choices
When OpenAI announced its new GPT-5 model for ChatGPT, the biggest pushback came from devotees of older models. They felt the new generative AI chatbot lacked the unique qualities of its predecessors. In response to this feedback, you now have more choices of pre-GPT-5 models and better control over how GPT-5 handles your questions.
OpenAI is navigating a somewhat rocky launch for GPT-5, primarily due to complaints about the initial lack of model choices. The model arrived as competitors like Anthropic and Google released powerful new versions of their own AI.
Originally, OpenAI planned for a single, versatile GPT-5 model that included a fast mode for simple tasks and a reasoning mode for complex ones, with a routing program deciding which to use. While that's still the default, it's no longer your only option. Here's a look at the current menu.
Understanding the GPT-5 Model Choices
You can now select between several different modes of GPT-5. Here is a quick rundown of your options:
This is what your choices will look like if you don't enable legacy models in settings. - Screenshot by Jon Reed/CNET
- Auto: This default mode lets GPT-5's built-in switching program decide whether a lighter, faster model or a bigger, slower reasoning model handles your query. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman posted on X that this is the best fit for most people.
- Fast: Your query goes directly to the fastest, most lightweight model. Expect quick, basic answers rather than in-depth research.
- Thinking: This is a reasoning model that attempts to answer your question in several steps, potentially using web searches and other tools. It has a usage limit of 3,000 messages per week currently.
- Thinking mini: A lighter, faster version of the Thinking model. You'll be switched to this if you hit the usage cap on the standard Thinking model, or you can access it directly by enabling more model options.
- Pro: This is the most powerful reasoning model available, currently exclusive to Pro users who pay $200 per month. However, Altman has teased that Plus users might get a limited number of queries as a trial.
Sticking with Auto is likely the easiest path for most users. Think of it as an automatic transmission in a car—while enthusiasts might prefer a stick shift, most people are better off letting the machine handle the gear changes.
How to Access Older ChatGPT Models
All paid ChatGPT subscribers can now access the older GPT-4o model directly from the same menu where you select your GPT-5 mode. After significant user clamor, this model was brought back, and Altman has stated that if OpenAI ever decides to remove it permanently, they will provide ample notice.
However, GPT-4o isn't your only legacy option if you're a paid user. To access GPT-4.1, 4o-mini, and 3o, along with GPT-5 Thinking mini, you need to go into your Settings and toggle on "Show additional models." This will populate your model selection menu with the full range of available choices.
