> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.carto.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.carto.com/carto-user-manual/ai-agents/choosing-the-right-model.md).

# Choosing the right model

In your Agent configuration, you can select from models made available by your organization through [CARTO AI settings](/carto-user-manual/settings/carto-ai.md).

<figure><img src="https://3029946802-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FybPdpmLltPkzGFvz7m8A%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-cb1e19c61e0cde98b259dfc175cfb734cf0d2aee%2FScreenshot%202025-10-02%20at%2001.00.25.png?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Model recommendations

Models generally fall into two categories:

* **Opus/Pro models** (e.g., `claude-opus-5.5`, `claude-fable-5.1`, `gemini-3.1-pro`, `gpt-6-astra`): Most capable, best for complex multi-step reasoning. Highest cost and latency.
* **Sonnet/Pro models** (e.g., `claude-sonnet-5.5`, `gemini-3.1-pro`, `gpt-5`): Strong balance of capability, cost, and latency. `claude-sonnet-5.5` is the default CARTO-managed model.
* **Flash/Mini/Haiku models** (e.g., `gemini-3.8-flash`, `gpt-5-mini`, `claude-haiku-4.5`): Faster and more cost-efficient. Good for simpler tasks.

If the same model is available through multiple cloud providers, choose based on your data residency requirements.


---

# Agent Instructions
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