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Gemini CLI model selection (/model command)

Select your Gemini CLI model. The /model command opens a dialog where you can configure the model used by Gemini CLI, giving you more control over your results.

Note: The /model command (and the --model flag) does not override the model used by sub-agents. Consequently, even when using the /model flag you may see other models used in your model usage reports.

How to use the /model command​

Use the following command in Gemini CLI:

/model

Running this command will open a dialog with your model options:

OptionDescriptionModels
Auto (recommended)Let the system choose the best model for your task.gemini-3-pro-preview (if enabled), gemini-2.5-pro, gemini-2.5-flash, gemini-2.5-flash-lite
ProFor complex tasks that require deep reasoning and creativity.gemini-3-pro-preview (if enabled), gemini-2.5-pro
FlashFor tasks that need a balance of speed and reasoning.gemini-2.5-flash
Flash-LiteFor simple tasks that need to be done quickly.gemini-2.5-flash-lite

Gemini 3 Pro and preview features​

Note: Gemini 3 is not currently available on all account types. To learn more about Gemini 3 access, refer to Gemini 3 Pro on Gemini CLI.

To enable Gemini 3 Pro (if available), enable Preview features by using the settings command. Once enabled, Gemini CLI will attempt to use Gemini 3 Pro when you select Auto or Pro. Both Auto and Pro will try to use Gemini 3 Pro before falling back to Gemini 2.5 Pro.

You can also use the --model flag to specify a particular Gemini model on startup. For more details, refer to the configuration documentation.

Changes to these settings will be applied to all subsequent interactions with Gemini CLI.

Best practices for model selection​

  • Default to Auto (recommended). For most users, the Auto (recommended) model provides a balance between speed and performance, automatically selecting the correct model based on the complexity of the task. Example: Developing a web application could include a mix of complex tasks (building architecture and scaffolding the project) and simple tasks (generating CSS).

  • Switch to Pro if you aren't getting the results you want. If you think you need your model to be a little "smarter," use Pro. Pro will provide you with the highest levels of reasoning and creativity. Example: A complex or multi-stage debugging task.

  • Switch to Flash or Flash-Lite if you need faster results. If you need a simple response quickly, Flash or Flash-Lite is the best option. Example: Converting a JSON object to a YAML string.