OpenAI Model Component

Last updated: Jan 2026

OpenAI Model

Powerful language models from OpenAI

OpenAI provides a family of powerful language models optimized for different use cases. The OpenAI Model component allows you to integrate GPT-5.2, GPT-5.1, GPT-4o, o3, o4-mini, and more into your workflows for text generation, analysis, code generation, and more.

The GPT-5 series models offer the highest capability, while GPT-4o provides an excellent balance of intelligence and speed. The o3 and o4-mini reasoning models excel at complex problem-solving and analysis tasks.

Available Models

ModelContextVisionSpeedBest For
GPT-5.2128KYesMediumComplex reasoning, highest capability
GPT-5.1128KYesMediumHigh capability, excellent reasoning
GPT-5 Mini128KYesFastEfficient GPT-5 for most tasks
GPT-5 Nano128KYesVery FastLightweight GPT-5 for simple tasks
GPT-4.1128KYesFastBalanced capability and speed
GPT-4.1 Mini128KYesVery FastCost-efficient for moderate complexity
GPT-4.1 Nano128KYesVery FastLightweight, high-volume tasks
GPT-4o128KYesFastMost use cases (recommended)
GPT-4o Mini128KYesVery FastSimple tasks, high volume
o3200KYesMediumAdvanced reasoning, multi-step problems
o3-mini200KYesFastEfficient reasoning model
o4-mini200KYesFastLatest reasoning, cost-efficient

Configuration

When you add an OpenAI Model component to your workflow, you can configure the following settings.

Model Selection

Choose which OpenAI model to use for this step. Each model has different capabilities and pricing.

Task Instructions

Define the AI's role, behavior, and the task to perform. Write clear instructions describing what you want the AI to do.

Example Task Instructions
You are a professional content writer specializing in technology topics.
Write in a clear, engaging style suitable for a general audience.

Write a 500-word blog post about artificial intelligence in healthcare.

Requirements:
- Use a professional but approachable tone
- Include 3 key takeaways
- Add a compelling introduction and conclusion

Temperature

Controls randomness in the output. Lower values (0-0.3) produce more deterministic responses, higher values (0.7-1.0) produce more creative output.

ValueBehaviorUse When
0DeterministicConsistent, predictable outputs needed
0.5BalancedGeneral-purpose tasks
1.0CreativeBrainstorming, creative writing

JSON Mode

Enable JSON mode when you need structured data output. The model will always return valid JSON that matches your specified schema.

Use Cases

OpenAI models excel at a wide variety of tasks.

  • Complex reasoning and analysis tasks
  • Code generation and debugging
  • Content creation and copywriting
  • Data extraction and summarization
  • Multi-turn conversational agents
  • Translation and language tasks
  • Question answering from documents
  • Creative writing and brainstorming

Capabilities

FeatureDescription
Function CallingCall external functions and APIs directly from the model for structured outputs and tool use
VisionAll models can analyze images, extract text, and describe visual content
StreamingStream responses in real-time for faster perceived performance
JSON ModeGuarantee valid JSON output for reliable structured data extraction

Best Practices

  1. Use temperature 0 for production: Set temperature to 0 for deterministic outputs when consistency matters.
  2. Use GPT-4o Mini for simple tasks: Save costs by using GPT-4o Mini for high-volume, simpler operations.

Rate Limits

OpenAI applies rate limits based on your API tier. For high-volume workflows, consider implementing retry logic with exponential backoff.

Key Takeaways

  • GPT-4o offers the best balance of capability and speed for most use cases
  • Use GPT-5.2 or o3/o4-mini for complex reasoning and multi-step problem solving
  • Enable JSON mode when you need structured data output
  • Consider GPT-5 Nano, GPT-4.1 Nano, or GPT-4o Mini for high-volume tasks
  • All models support vision for image analysis in your workflows
Claude Model