AI models: choose a tool for the task
A 5 September 2026 reference edition for comparing text, image and video models, with primary sources and a practical trial.
Start with the task, then compare
This is a historical snapshot checked on 5 September 2026, not a live model ranking. Later releases may replace or change these entries. Check the primary source and your account before relying on a model name, status or feature.
Choose three representative tasks, use equivalent inputs and count corrections as part of the cost. Keep the workflow you can verify. The club has not run a comparative benchmark of these models.
Run the model comparison exercise to turn these notes into a decision you can explain.
For the later image exercises, see the 8 September product-editing lab. The Suno v6 guide has its own 13 September source check.
GPT-6 Astra
OpenAI positions Astra for difficult work spanning tools and documents. It accepts text and images and produces text; image generation is a separate tool. A sensible candidate for a demanding brief or a code review.
What to check
Compare it on the same task and inputs as your current model. Record corrections and total cost, including tools. Do not assume it is available in every plan or in Cirka.
Claude Fable 5.1
Anthropic's September 1 release targets coding and extended knowledge work. Its product page lists paid Claude plans and API access. Consider it for a second assessment of a complex plan, not an automatic replacement for a cheaper model.
What to check
Check permissions, retention and the current price before uploading client material. Our course has not run a comparative benchmark.
Gemini 3.8 Flash
Google's model catalogue identifies 3.8 Flash as its current Flash model for complex workflows. Use the exact model identifier in an experiment log so a future alias change does not erase what you tested.
What to check
Start with a small representative workload. Measure task success and latency instead of inferring either from the word Flash.
GPT Image 2
OpenAI documents text-and-image inputs and generated images. Use it as one candidate for product-preservation and layout tests, with the same reference photo across candidates.
What to check
Inspect small labels, geometry and reflections. A visually attractive result is not proof that the product remained accurate.
Nano Banana 2.1 / Nano Banana Pro
Google lists Nano Banana 2.1 as gemini-nano-banana-2.1 and Pro as gemini-3-pro-image. They are distinct choices; write down which one you used instead of logging only Nano Banana.
What to check
Compare cost per accepted image. Check the engine actually offered by your chosen app before following a model-specific instruction.
Read the official Nano Banana 2.1 / Nano Banana Pro reference
Runway Gen-4.5 / Aleph 2.0
Runway documents Gen-4.5 and Aleph 2.0 as separate video tools. Choose a generation workflow for a new shot and an editing workflow when you need to modify existing footage.
What to check
Check the endpoint, duration and supported input format. Score usable seconds, continuity and editing effort; do not mix text-to-video and image-to-video results in one ranking.
Gemini Omni Flash
Google lists gemini-omni-1.1-flash for video generation and editing with audio. Preview status makes this an experiment candidate, with a fallback for client deadlines.
What to check
Test the exact mode you need. Keep the original stills, script and edit timeline so you can change tools without rebuilding the entire project.
Claude Mythos 5.1
Anthropic limits Mythos 5.1 to vetted organizations. An announcement does not make it a practical course prerequisite.
What to check
Follow the release for context; use an available model for the exercises. Do not buy access from unofficial resellers.
Check the workspace as well as the model
Cirka is our founder's app. We use it as an optional creative workspace in these examples. A separate subscription or credits may be required. Check the tools and models actually available in your account; a model mentioned in a guide is not a claim of Cirka integration.
Explore Cirka Creative Studio when a reviewed brief is ready for image production. Preparing and comparing the brief does not require a Cirka subscription.
Continue from here
See how this exercise fits into the Vibe coding course, including its full public syllabus.
Browse all free guides for another task, or save your work and return to it later.
Keep learning in the club
Course outlines and these guides are free to read without an account. Full lesson bodies and member features require a paid membership. The preview uses sample data; external tools may charge separately.