ChatGPT, Work, Codex and Dot: which one do I use?

Start with the job

These are different ways to work with AI, not four model names. An LLM is the model that reads and generates language. The app supplies the tools, files and actions around it.

Experience	Use it for	An example request	Main trade-off
ChatGPT Chat	A conversation, explanation or draft	“Help me write a friendly reply.”	You may still need to take the next steps yourself.
ChatGPT Work	Delegating a task and reviewing the finished result	“Research these options and make a comparison spreadsheet.”	It needs the right files, connections and a clear finish line.
Codex	Building and maintaining software with developer tools	“Fix this website issue, run the checks and show the changes.”	Code, commands and review views can feel more technical.
Your dot	Keeping an ongoing responsibility moving between conversations	“Keep track of this project’s open decisions and bring me the ones that need me.”	It needs access and boundaries; rollout and account eligibility matter.

Work and Codex overlap: Codex can also do research and documents. Work emphasizes finished outputs with less developer detail; Codex makes technical work easier to inspect. Pick the interface you find useful rather than treating them as completely separate abilities.

One event, four ways to get help

For a family gathering, Chat can help you think of food. Work could turn your dates, guest list and public venue information into a plan. Codex could build a small RSVP website. A dot could keep track of changing arrangements using information and tools you connect.

Those are example requests, not a promise that every account has every integration. A dot’s cloud work can continue when your computer is off; tasks that need your connected computer require that computer to be available.

What does it cost?

As checked on 25 October 2026, OpenAI lists limited Free access for Work/Codex subject to rollout, Plus at US$20/month, and Pro from US$100/month. Work and Codex share usage rather than having separate included allowances. API-key billing is separate. Features depend on plan and workspace settings.

Dots are rolling out to eligible accounts. We have not confirmed a standalone Dot price for this guide; check the offer shown in your account before subscribing for it.

What should I try first?

If you want a better answer, stay in Chat. If you want a finished file, try Work. If you want to change a website, try Codex. If the job is keeping track of a responsibility over time, explore a dot when available.

Next, see what makes an AI agent useful, or choose a chat app.