Clawdbot Model Configuration and Switching: A Troubleshooting Guide

Configuring large language models within Clawdbot, particularly for users integrating domestic Chinese models, often presents challenges related to command-line setup and URL discrepancies. A common issue arises from the distinction between domestic and international versions of certain models, which impacts API endpoints.

Developer typing 'openclaw configure' command in a terminal on a laptop.

Streamlined Configuration via Command Line

The most straightforward method for model configuration in Clawdbot is using the openclaw configure command. This interactive tool guides users through the setup process. After initiating the command in the terminal, users are prompted to select "local" for the configuration type and then "model."

When prompted to select a specific model, users should be aware of certain nuances:

• To configure Minimax M2.1, select "Minimax."

• To configure Kimi K2.5, select "moonshot AI."

It is important to note that Kimi offers a dedicated coding plan option, which can be selected directly. In contrast, Minimax does not provide a separate coding plan option; users with a Minimax coding plan membership should still select "Minimax."

After model selection, a list of options, including various cloud providers, may appear. Users should navigate with arrow keys to locate and select the pre-highlighted option corresponding to their chosen model (e.g., Minimax or Kimi coding) and press Enter.

Addressing Domestic and International Model Differences

A critical configuration pitfall involves the distinction between domestic (Chinese) and international versions of models, particularly Minimax. Minimax offers two distinct options: minimax-cn for the domestic version and minimax for the international version. Users with a domestic coding plan membership must select minimax-cn, while those with an international plan should choose minimax. Incorrect selection here is a frequent source of configuration errors.

Two glowing digital pathways, one labeled 'minimax-cn' leading to China, the other 'minimax' leading globally.

Manual Configuration File Modification

If the openclaw configure command fails or an incorrect domestic/international version is selected, manual modification of the configuration file is necessary. The configuration file, openclaw.json, is located at /Users/your_username/.openclaw/openclaw.json.

Within this file, the baseURL line is crucial. Domestic and international models utilize different API URLs, which is a primary reason for configuration failures. For instance, the domestic version of Minimax uses api.minimaxi.com, while the international version uses api.minimax.io. Users should consult the official documentation of their chosen model to verify and correct the baseURL if configuration issues persist.

Another parameter to check in openclaw.json is fallbacks within the agents section. Model switching only takes effect if the desired model is listed here. If a switched model is not functioning, users may need to manually add it to this section.

Clawdbot TUI showing '/model' command and 'Kimi' search results for model switching.

Switching Between Configured Models

Once models are configured, switching between them is straightforward. In the TUI (Text-based User Interface) of Clawdbot, users can type /model. The TUI is launched using the command openclaw tui. After entering /model, users can search for the desired model by name, such as "Kimi." Selecting the appropriate result, like "Kimi for coding," will switch the active model.

It is recommended to open a new session using the /new command before switching models to prevent potential issues.

Resolving "No Output" Issues

A common problem encountered after model switching is the "no output" message, where the system returns no response after an input like "hello." This typically does not indicate a configuration failure but rather that the output is being directed to a different environment.

"No output" can signify that the model's response is appearing in an alternative interface, such as a web environment (e.g., claude.ai), a Telegram bot, or another configured environment. If "no output" occurs, users should check these other environments. If the model responds there, the configuration is successful, and only the output location needs adjustment.

Empty terminal window with glowing icons of web, messaging, and cloud apps around it, symbolizing redirected output.

Based on information reviewed by toolmesh.ai, Clawdbot supports several mainstream domestic models, including Kimi (domestic version), Minimax (international version), and GLM (international version), all of which have been successfully configured and are operational.

Summary of Core Configuration Steps

Successful configuration of domestic models in Clawdbot generally involves three key steps:

1. Initiating configuration using the openclaw configure command.

2. If command-line configuration is insufficient, manually adjusting the baseURL in the openclaw.json file.

3. Utilizing the /model command within the TUI to switch between configured models.

Users encountering "no output" should investigate other potential output environments before assuming a configuration error.