GPT-4 isn’t gone — here’s how to use it for free right now

GPT-4o on a Phone
(Image credit: Getty Images)

When OpenAI finally launched the much-anticipated GPT-5, many users were disappointed by what seemed like an over-hyped model. Although GPT-5 brings faster responses, better reasoning and stronger multimodal skills, not everyone loved the change, especially because GPT-4 quietly disappeared from the drop-down model selector.

Upset users took to Reddit and social media to voice their concerns. Some say GPT-4’s tone and pacing just felt better.

OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, quickly acknowledged the feedback and, in an unprecedented move, even promised to bring back GPT-4, but for paid subscribers only.

For free ChatGPT users, there’s no way to switch back; GPT-5 is now the only option unless you pay for a Plus subscription. That means if you preferred GPT-4’s style, you’re either stuck adapting to GPT-5 or looking for an alternative.

If you’re in that camp, here’s the good news: GPT-4 isn’t gone. You can still use it for free through Microsoft Copilot.

How to get GPT-4 for free

Copilot mode screenshot

(Image credit: Microsoft)

Microsoft Copilot, built into Windows 11, Microsoft Edge, and Bing, runs on GPT-4 Turbo, a faster, more efficient version of GPT-4.

With the free tier, you can ask unlimited questions, generate text, brainstorm ideas, summarize documents and even create AI images. All you need is a Microsoft account.

You can launch Copilot in a few ways:

  • Windows 11: Press Windows + C or click the Copilot icon on your taskbar.
  • Microsoft Edge: Click the Copilot button in the sidebar.
  • Bing.com: Sign in and start chatting.

Why it’s worth trying

copilot mode screenshot

(Image credit: Microsoft)

GPT-4 Turbo in Copilot retains many of GPT-4’s strengths that users have gotten used to over two years. The detailed answers, strong reasoning and creative writing responses may feel more natural compared to GPT's shorter responses.

If you want more, Copilot Pro ($20/month) unlocks priority access to GPT-4 Turbo during peak times, more customization and Microsoft 365 integration. But for most people, the free version is plenty, and if you're going to pay $20/month because you want GPT-4, you could get a ChatGPT Plus subscription.

Final thoughts

GPT-5 may be OpenAI’s flagship, but GPT-4 hasn’t vanished (phew!). There are ways for users to get access to their beloved chatbot— even for free.

As someone who tests AI for a living, I encourage you to keep giving GPT-5 a try. Use GPT-4 in Copilot, but save a few prompts for GPT-5 so you can slowly get used to the new model. It's also a great time to try other chatbots, do some prompt dusting and discover why you prefer one chatbot over the other.

We’re drawn to what we know, yet it’s the unfamiliar that can truly shift our perspective.

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Amanda Caswell
AI Writer

Amanda Caswell is an award-winning journalist, bestselling YA author, and one of today’s leading voices in AI and technology. A celebrated contributor to various news outlets, her sharp insights and relatable storytelling have earned her a loyal readership. Amanda’s work has been recognized with prestigious honors, including outstanding contribution to media.

Known for her ability to bring clarity to even the most complex topics, Amanda seamlessly blends innovation and creativity, inspiring readers to embrace the power of AI and emerging technologies. As a certified prompt engineer, she continues to push the boundaries of how humans and AI can work together.

Beyond her journalism career, Amanda is a bestselling author of science fiction books for young readers, where she channels her passion for storytelling into inspiring the next generation. A long-distance runner and mom of three, Amanda’s writing reflects her authenticity, natural curiosity, and heartfelt connection to everyday life — making her not just a journalist, but a trusted guide in the ever-evolving world of technology.

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