How Can I Access These ChatGPT Models? (Plus vs Pro Plans)

With all these model options (GPT-4o, GPT-4.5, o3, o4-mini, etc.), it’s important to know who can use which model.

Here’s the breakdown as of mid-2025: Free users of ChatGPT have access to the default model (which is similar to GPT-3.5 Turbo). They generally do not see the model picker dropdown – ChatGPT will just use the basic model for them. During special events or trials, free users might get limited GPT-4 use, but on a day-to-day basis free tier is just the standard model. ChatGPT Plus ($20/month) users get the model chooser with GPT-4 and related models. As a Plus subscriber, you can use GPT-4o (the regular GPT-4) for a set number of messages every 3 hours (there are rate limits, but they’re generous for normal use). Plus users also have access to GPT-4.1 mini (the improved “mini” model for quick tasks) and usually the standard OpenAI o3 model for reasoning. Essentially, Plus unlocks the GPT-4 family and the o-series base model. However, some of the newest or most powerful models are reserved for the higher tier. That’s where ChatGPT Pro comes in. ChatGPT Pro (~$40/month) gives you everything in Plus, and early access to cutting-edge models like GPT-4.5 (Research Preview) and o3-pro. For example, GPT-4.5 was initially rolled out to Pro users worldwide, with OpenAI planning to extend it to Plus later. Similarly, o3-pro (with its intensive reasoning) is available for Pro and enterprise users first. Pro also often comes with higher rate limits (more messages you can send, faster response times due to priority, etc.), which is handy if you’re a heavy user.

In summary, Plus users can use GPT-4o, o3, and the mini models – more than enough for most people’s needs – while Pro users get those and the experimental/top-tier models like GPT-4.5 and o3-pro as soon as they’re released. If you’re on Plus and don’t see GPT-4.5 or o3-pro in your dropdown, that’s why – they’re Pro-exclusive until OpenAI expands access.

One more note: Enterprise and Teams plans also have access to these models, similar to Pro, often with sharing capabilities for organizations. But for everyday individuals, the choice is Plus vs Pro. If you find yourself wanting the absolute latest model (or you keep hitting usage limits), upgrading to Pro might be worth it. Otherwise, Plus already offers the core GPT-4 and o3 experience. Whichever plan you’re on, you can still use Projects and attachments features (those are available to both Plus and Pro), so you can organize your chats and upload files regardless.

Wondering if GPT-4.5 or o3-pro are worth the upgrade? As a Plus user you can accomplish a ton with GPT-4o and friends – but our daily AI newsletter keeps you informed when new features drop to all users. Stay tuned, and enjoy exploring these models!