Choose your model: Claude, OpenAI, or local models

USE 0 - 15 min

Switch between Anthropic, OpenAI, and local models

OpenClaw runs with Anthropic, OpenAI, or local models — you configure this during openclaw onboard and can change it at any time. Local models keep your data private by default.

1 Check which model you configured during onboarding. The OpenClaw documentation at docs.openclaw.ai describes where the model setting lives.
2 Try switching to a different provider: if you used Anthropic, try OpenAI (or vice versa). Re-run the relevant configuration step.
3 If you have a local model running on your machine, point OpenClaw at it instead. Local models keep your data private by default — nothing is sent to a cloud API.
4 Send a test message and confirm the new model is responding.
5 Switch back to whichever provider you prefer for daily use.

✓

You have successfully changed the model provider and received a reply confirming the new model is active.

UNDERSTAND 5 - 10 min

Why the model choice matters

OpenClaw supports Anthropic, OpenAI, or local models. The agent runs on your machine regardless of which you choose.

BUILD 15 - 20 min

Document your model choice

Decide which model provider you will use day-to-day and note the reason, so you can revisit the decision if your needs change.

Your task

Configure your preferred model and write a one-sentence record of why you chose it.

1 Set your final model provider in OpenClaw configuration.
2 Send a question relevant to your actual work and evaluate the reply.
3 Write one sentence: which provider you chose (Anthropic, OpenAI, or local models) and why.

Deliverable

OpenClaw configured with your chosen model and a one-sentence record of your reasoning.