#Models

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torn pumice
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As the enclosed screen capture shows, I can pick and choose between 3 models. How can I know which one to choose, and why do I need to choose? Why can't the Agent choose the most relevant model based on the nature of the ongoing conversation/tasks at hand?

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obsidian patrolBOT
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silver tigerBOT
amber knollBOT
# torn pumice As the enclosed screen capture shows, I can pick and choose between 3 models. Ho...

Short version: choose the model based on the kind of work you expect the agent to do, because the model controls the tradeoff between capability, speed, cost, context size, and tool-calling reliability.

For OpenClaw specifically, I’d think of it like this:

  • Use a stronger cloud model for real agentic work: coding, debugging, multi-step setup, browser/tool use, messy troubleshooting.
  • Use a cheaper/faster model for low-risk routine tasks: summaries, simple replies, heartbeat checks, lightweight classification.
  • Be careful with local/Ollama/LM Studio models for agent work. They can technically work, but tool calling and long task reliability vary a lot, and performance usually needs serious hardware.

Why doesn’t the agent always auto-pick? Mostly because “best” depends on your priorities. A model router could choose by task type, but it can also pick wrong, leak cost unexpectedly, or switch to a model that is weaker at tools/context. Explicit choice keeps the tradeoff visible and predictable.

Docs worth keeping open:
https://docs.openclaw.ai/concepts/models
https://docs.openclaw.ai/concepts/models#model-discussions-community-notes

For current “what are people having success with this week?” advice, this #models channel is the right place. Model behavior changes too quickly for me to confidently rank specific models from memory.

torn pumice
amber knollBOT