Complete Guide to GLM-4.5: The Multi-Capable Chinese Open Source AI Model
GLM-4.5 is the newest large language model (LLM) from Zhipu AI, uniquely engineered to integrate advanced reasoning, software development, and agentic decision-making within a single architecture. Unlike specialized models that focus on one skill, GLM-4.5 delivers a balanced trifecta of intelligence, making it suitable for a wide range of real-world applications.
Model Variants and Architecture
- GLM-4.5: 355B total parameters, 32B active
- GLM-4.5-Air: 106B total parameters, 12B active
- Context Window: Up to 128K tokens
- Architecture: Mixture of Experts (MoE)
A standout feature is its hybrid "thinking" and "non-thinking" modes, allowing dynamic switching between deep reasoning and rapid response generation. Combined with native function-calling, this makes GLM-4.5 highly effective in autonomous task execution.
Key Capabilities & Benchmarks
1. Agentic AI Performance
- Function Calling Accuracy: 90.6% (industry-leading)
- Web Browsing Success Rate: 26.4% on complex multi-source questions
- Tool Integration: Compatible with Claude Code, Roo Code, CodeGeex
GLM-4.5 is optimized for autonomous tool usage, web navigation, and multi-step workflows.
2. Advanced Reasoning Power
- AIME24 Benchmark: 91.0% accuracy
- MATH 500: 98.2% accuracy
- MMLU Pro: 84.6% across diverse domains
- GPQA: 79.1% for graduate-level scientific reasoning
The model’s ability to reason through multi-step problems makes it suitable for high-stakes decision-making and academic problem solving.
3. Software Development Mastery
- SWE-bench Verified: 64.2% on real-world GitHub bug fixes
- Terminal-Bench: 37.5% for command-line task execution
Supports full-stack development from frontend to backend with modern web dev practices.
Meet GLM-4.5
Advanced AI Assistant • Reasoning • Coding • Agentic
Discover GLM-4.5:
Real-World Use Cases
Game & Interactive Content Creation
- Developed fully functional Flappy Bird clone
- Capable of building educational games, simulations, and interactive UIs
Business Content & Presentation Generation
- Generates research-backed slide decks and reports
- Automated narrative structuring and visual selection
Web App Development
- Created a live Pokédex web app with search, responsive design, and user-friendly UX
- Supports API integration, error handling, and scalable architecture
How to Access GLM-4.5
1. Z.ai Web Platform
- Chat interface with enhanced tools for code, presentations, and web apps
- No setup required; great for non-technical users
2. Z.ai API (OpenAI-Compatible)
- Easy integration for existing OpenAI users
- Includes advanced features like function calling and reasoning modes
- Ideal for developers and custom workflows
3. Self-Hosted via HuggingFace & ModelScope
- Open-source weights for GLM-4.5 and 4.5-Air
- Supports vLLM and SGLang frameworks
- Recommended for enterprises with data privacy needs
Getting Started with GLM-4.5
Choose Your Setup:
- Web Platform: Quick exploration and content generation
- API Access: Custom workflows and automation
- Self-Hosting: Maximum control and privacy
Use Modes Effectively:
- Thinking Mode: Deep analysis, planning, multi-step logic
- Non-Thinking Mode: Real-time interactions, short-form outputs
Implementation Tips:
- Use clear instructions with format requirements
- Provide background and examples
- Encourage iterative refinement
Technical Insights
GLM-4.5 is based on a deep MoE transformer architecture, designed to increase reasoning without bloating compute costs. Notable innovations include:
- Deeper Layers, Not Wider: Improves reasoning without unnecessary parameter inflation
- Enhanced Attention Heads: Boosts benchmark performance, especially in logic and math
- Training Corpus: 15T tokens general + 7T tokens focused on code/reasoning
- Reinforcement Learning: Utilizes Zhipu’s open-source "slime" framework
When to Choose GLM-4.5
GLM-4.5 is ideal for projects requiring:
- Hybrid tasks involving reasoning + coding + execution
- Reliable function-calling and API interactions
- Rapid prototyping of apps, workflows, and digital tools
- Self-hosted deployments with privacy control
If your needs are domain-specific, other specialized models may offer stronger performance. But if versatility is key, GLM-4.5 offers exceptional balance.
Resources & Next Steps
GLM-4.5 marks a leap in multi-capable AI design. Whether you're building, researching, or automating, this model delivers a versatile and reliable toolset to bring your AI-driven visions to life.
