Model Guide
OpenClaw + GPT-5.6: Sol, Terra and Luna Setup Guide
GPT-5.6 is now generally available. Here is how to choose the right member of the family, connect it to OpenClaw without an invalid model ID, and keep cost and capability aligned with your agent's job.
What changed with GPT-5.6?
OpenAI launched three production choices rather than a single one-size-fits-all model. GPT-5.6 Sol is the frontier option for difficult coding, research, computer use, science, and long-running reasoning. GPT-5.6 Terra balances intelligence and cost for everyday agent work. GPT-5.6 Luna targets efficient, high-volume workloads.
The API alias gpt-5.6 routes to Sol. That shortcut is useful for direct API clients, but OpenClaw configurations still need the provider prefix required by the selected provider.
Choose the right model for your agent
| Model | Best for | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-5.6 Sol | Hard reasoning, coding, research, computer use | Highest capability and cost |
| GPT-5.6 Terra | General assistants, tools, recurring knowledge work | Balanced default |
| GPT-5.6 Luna | Classification, extraction, high-volume automation | Efficiency over maximum depth |
Configure GPT-5.6 in OpenClaw
- Open your OpenClaw Launch configurator or self-hosted configuration.
- Add your own OpenAI or OpenRouter key. Never paste a platform-owned key into a user container.
- Select the GPT-5.6 variant you want.
- Save the configuration and send a neutral test prompt.
{
"agents": {
"defaults": {
"model": { "primary": "openrouter/openai/gpt-5.6-sol" }
}
}
}Model catalog names can change as providers finish rollout. Confirm the exact ID shown by your provider before saving; do not remove the provider prefix.
Direct OpenAI key or OpenRouter?
A direct OpenAI key gives you the official API relationship and current OpenAI catalog. OpenRouter is useful when one key must access models from several vendors or when you want to switch providers frequently. In both cases, OpenClaw keeps the agent, channels, memory, and Skills layer separate from the underlying model.
Use GPT-5.6 safely in an agent
Start with a narrow tool allowlist, review destructive actions, and keep payments human-confirmed. A stronger model can plan better, but it should not receive card details or unrestricted production credentials. For routine work, Terra or Luna may also be more economical than sending every message to Sol.
For a managed deployment, OpenClaw Launch handles the server, gateway, TLS, and channel connection. The Lite plan is $3 for the first month and $6/month on renewal; model usage depends on the provider you choose.
GPT-5.6 with OpenClaw FAQ
Is GPT-5.6 officially available?
Yes. OpenAI released the GPT-5.6 family on July 9, 2026 across ChatGPT, Codex, and the API.
Which GPT-5.6 model should I use?
Start with Terra for balanced everyday work, choose Sol for the hardest reasoning and coding tasks, and use Luna for efficient high-volume automation.
Do I need to rebuild OpenClaw?
No. Change the provider-prefixed model ID in the dashboard or configuration. A container rebuild is not required.