My Favorite AI Model Right Now

2026-05-14 · Source: Matt Wolfe · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

The author expresses a complete lack of loyalty to any single large language model (LLM) or generative AI model, instead opting to use whichever model performs best at a given time. Currently, GPT 5.5 is the preferred LLM due to its strong all-around capabilities, though Claude Opus 4.7 was favored just last month. The author notes a past practice of switching between ChatGPT for conversational tasks and Claude for coding. This fluid preference extends to image and video models; while Nano Banana Pro was previously a top choice, the GPT image model is currently favored, especially for generating images with integrated text. This approach anticipates continuous shifts in preference as new models are released.

Key takeaway

For AI Engineers and Machine Learning Engineers evaluating which models to integrate or recommend, your strategy should prioritize current performance over past preferences or brand loyalty. Continuously benchmark and test new releases, as the "best" model for a given task, whether LLM or image generation, can shift monthly. Be prepared to adapt your toolkit to leverage the most effective solution available.

Key insights

Optimal AI tool selection requires continuous evaluation and adaptation, not brand loyalty.

Principles

• Prioritize model performance over brand affiliation.
• Model efficacy is dynamic and subject to frequent change.

In practice

• Regularly re-evaluate preferred AI models.
• Match model strengths to specific task requirements.

Topics

• AI Model Selection
• Large Language Models
• Image Generation Models
• Video Generation Models
• GPT 5.5

Best for: AI Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Director of AI/ML

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Matt Wolfe.