Last week marked the monumental launch of OpenAI’s latest iteration, the ChatGPT 5 model, which is now the default option for both free and paid users. However, the rollout has not been met with unanimous support. A significant number of users still show a preference for the previous ChatGPT 4o model. Fortunately, OpenAI has taken user feedback to heart and has reinstated the option to revert to the older model. This allows users to reconnect with ChatGPT 4o easily.
Why the Launch of ChatGPT 5 is Disappointing for Some Users
While ChatGPT 5 brings a variety of enhancements—such as accelerated coding capabilities, new personas, and improved voice interactions—many users have expressed their frustrations across social platforms, including Reddit.
The primary concern appears to be the model’s response quality. Users note that ChatGPT 5 often delivers shorter and less engaging replies compared to its predecessor, with some describing it as more “cold”and “detached.”In contrast, the creativity that ChatGPT 4o exudes has garnered much acclaim.
Despite the potential for improvement in tone and engagement with future updates, concerns remain. Following the latest changes, the much-utilized model selection feature has disappeared, and Plus subscribers now face a limitation of 200 messages per week.
In response to user dissatisfaction, OpenAI has promptly allowed Plus subscribers to revert back to their preferred GPT 4o model.
How to Revert to ChatGPT 4o from GPT 5
It’s important to note that only subscribers of the Plus tier can revert to the older version; free users currently lack this option.
If you’re using ChatGPT through a web browser on your computer, begin by visiting the website and logging in with your credentials.
Next, click on your email address located in the bottom left corner of the screen, and from the pop-up menu, select Settings.
In the Settings menu, navigate to General and toggle the option for Show legacy models to the on position.
Press Esc to exit the settings. Now return to the main ChatGPT interface, click on ChatGPT-5 at the top, select Legacy models, and finally choose ChatGPT-4o.
You are now ready to engage with the older model once again.
If you’re trying to enable the Show legacy models option via the mobile app, note that this cannot be done directly within the app. Instead, log in through your mobile browser using your Plus subscription credentials, or perform the action from your PC.
After enabling the feature, open the app. If the ChatGPT 5 model is displayed, and it isn’t showing, ensure your app is updated via the Google Play Store or App Store. Once updated, restart the app.
Now select Legacy models -> GPT 4o to start enjoying the classic ChatGPT experience.
What Are Your Options If You Don’t Have ChatGPT Plus?
If you’re not a Plus subscriber, exploring alternative chatbot services may be your best option. For example, Google’s Gemini has recently emerged as a strong contender, boasting features that include the ability to generate custom storybooks based on user inputs.
Another alternative is Poe, which provides access to a wide array of chatbot models, including previous versions of ChatGPT.
Poe features a comparison tool, allowing users to see responses from multiple models for the same query. However, using this feature comes at a cost in “points, ”and free users are limited to one question. A paid subscription is required for additional access.
Additionally, LMArena offers another user-friendly alternative without the need for an account. Simply select the Direct Chat mode on their site to choose an AI model and start your conversation—completely free.
With ongoing user feedback, it’s possible that OpenAI could allow free users to switch back to older models in the future. For now, you may want to try the alternatives listed above. Additionally, consider exploring how ChatGPT can assist with reverse location searches for photos.
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