The Ultimate Guide to ChatGPT Models: Which One To Use?

We’re all diving into the world of AI-powered efficiency, but before we start asking ChatGPT to draft our emails, write our reports, or (let’s be honest) generate the occasional excuse for missing a meeting, let’s get one thing straight: not all ChatGPT models are created equal.

OpenAI has rolled out several versions, each with its own strengths. So, which one should you use? Let’s break it down in a way that won’t put you to sleep.

ChatGPT-4.5o: The Multitasking Overachiever, Upgraded

• What it does: Think of ChatGPT-4.5o as the AI equivalent of that one coworker who effortlessly juggles emails, presentations, and a coffee addiction—all at once, but now even better. This upgraded model can handle text, images, and audio, with improved performance and faster, more accurate outputs. It’s the evolution of 4o, optimized for even more seamless interactions.
• Best for: Multimodal tasks, lightning-fast responses, and general-purpose use. If you need to analyze an image, transcribe audio, or generate engaging content, this is your go-to.
• Example use: “Hey 4.5o, write me a LinkedIn post about our latest product launch, and while you’re at it, analyze this graph I have no time to look at.”

o1: The Deep Thinker

• What it does: This model takes a little more time to think, but that’s because it’s really good at problem-solving. If ChatGPT-4.5o is the multitasking extrovert, o1 is the quiet genius who sits in the corner and then suddenly drops the best idea of the meeting.
• Best for: Complex problem-solving, deep reasoning, and coding challenges. If you need help with intricate calculations or scientific research, o1 is the way to go.
• Example use: “Hey o1, can you help me debug this impossible piece of code while I pretend I know what I’m doing?”

o3-mini: The Speedy Assistant

• What it does: This is the lightweight model—fast, efficient, and doesn’t use as much computational power. It won’t overthink things, which makes it great for quick tasks and everyday use.
• Best for: Basic coding, math help, and general-purpose tasks that don’t require deep analysis.
• Example use: “o3-mini, summarize this 20-page report in five bullet points before my next meeting in five minutes.”

o3-mini-high: The Efficient Problem-Solver

• What it does: Like o3-mini but with a little more brainpower. It takes a bit longer to respond but gives better reasoning. If o3-mini is the quick-fix guy, o3-mini-high is the colleague who spends an extra minute but delivers a well-thought-out answer.
• Best for: A balance of speed and depth, making it ideal for slightly more complex coding and analysis.
• Example use: “o3-mini-high, can you explain this technical concept in a way that even my grandma would understand?”

So, Which One Should You Use?

• If you need an AI that can do everything at once → ChatGPT-4.5o
• If you want deeper, well-reasoned responses → o1
• If you just need something quick and snappy → o3-mini
• If you want speed + a bit of extra reasoning power → o3-mini-high

Still confused? Just think of them as coffee orders:

• ChatGPT-4.5o = Triple shot espresso with oat milk (handles everything, fast, and smooth).
• o1 = Pour-over single origin (slow but deep and refined).
• o3-mini = Regular black coffee (quick and efficient).
• o3-mini-high = Flat white (balanced, with a little extra kick).

Now, go forth and use AI wisely, because let’s be honest, the robots aren’t taking over just yet. But they are making our lives a whole lot easier!

Want to See AI in Action?

If you’re excited to see just how far AI can go, check out the latest Starttech Podcast Episode, where we dive into AI, ChatGPT, and even showcase how you can call GPT and let it see you via video! It’s a game-changing, innovative, and incredibly fun way to interact with AI—far beyond just typing on a keyboard. Watch it now and experience the future of AI-powered conversations firsthand!