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How to switch to GPT-4 mode on ChatGPT

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
Quick Answer

To switch to GPT-4 mode, click the model selector dropdown at the top of your ChatGPT interface and choose GPT-4. This feature requires a ChatGPT Plus subscription and provides access to more advanced reasoning capabilities.

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Prerequisites

  • Active ChatGPT Plus or Team subscription
  • Logged into your OpenAI account
  • Access to ChatGPT web interface or mobile app

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open ChatGPT and verify your subscription

Navigate to chat.openai.com and ensure you're logged in with a ChatGPT Plus or Team account. Look for the Plus badge next to your profile picture in the top-right corner.
If you don't see the Plus badge, you'll need to upgrade your subscription first
2

Locate the model selector

At the top of the chat interface, you'll see the current model name (likely GPT-3.5 by default). This appears as a dropdown button just above the message input area.
3

Click the model dropdown

Click on the model name dropdown to reveal available options. You should see GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 listed as available models.
The dropdown may also show additional GPT-4 variants like GPT-4 Turbo
4

Select GPT-4

Click on GPT-4 from the dropdown menu. The interface will update to show GPT-4 as the selected model at the top of your chat window.
GPT-4 responses may take slightly longer to generate but offer improved reasoning
5

Start a new conversation

Click New Chat in the sidebar or start typing your message. The model switch takes effect immediately, and all new messages will use GPT-4.
Existing conversations will continue with their original model unless you switch manually
6

Verify the model is active

Check that GPT-4 appears in the model selector and look for any visual indicators like a different colored header or GPT-4 label in the chat interface.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

GPT-4 option not visible in dropdown

Ensure you have an active ChatGPT Plus subscription. Free accounts only have access to GPT-3.5. Check your subscription status in Settings > Plan & billing.

Model keeps reverting to GPT-3.5

The model selection is conversation-specific. Make sure to select GPT-4 for each new chat, or check if you're continuing an old conversation that was started with GPT-3.5.

GPT-4 responses are very slow

GPT-4 naturally takes longer to process than GPT-3.5. During high traffic periods, responses may be slower. Try refreshing the page or switching to GPT-4 Turbo if available.

Error message when selecting GPT-4

Check your internet connection and try refreshing the page. If the error persists, verify your subscription is active and hasn't expired in Settings > Plan & billing.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official ChatGPT website before purchasing.
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