ChatGPT Vs DeepSeek: Which is Better?

Open AI sparked a fierce race among AI Titans with its ChatGPT release in November 2022. Since then, many contenders have been shaking things up to win Generative AI supremacy. Many LLM chatbots, like Claude AI by Anthropic and Google Gemini, were launched to end ChatGPT’s monopoly. Recently, a China startup has surprised the world with an LLM-based AI Chatbot, DeepSeek, which has emerged as a notable challenger to the already established rival - ChatGPT.

By January 27, 2025, DeepSeek achieved a milestone by becoming the most downloaded free app on the iOS app store in USA, leading to an 18% drop in Nvidia’s share price. The impressive performance and economic approach has made this cutting-edge LLM the talk of the town.

Let's dive into the various aspects of DeepSeek AI and ChatGPT, their strengths, weaknesses, and real-world applications to help you in the selection of which generative AI model best suits to your specific needs.

ChatGPT Vs DeepSeek

AI Models
Conventional LLMs (or LMMs)
ChatGPT currently offers 2 conventional LLMs (or LMMs), GPT-4o and GPT-4o mini, while DeepSeek offers only 1, DeepSeek V3. All these typical LLMs are fast and great for generating text responses. These models are also good for drafting emails.

Reasoning Models
ChatGPT offers two reasoning models—o1 and o3-mini—while DeepSeek offers only one, DeepSeek R1. These models use chain-of-thought reasoning but are slow to respond. They work great for scientific and coding problems.

Development Approach
DeepSeek is built with limited resources on less powerful hardware using innovative training methods. It clearly demonstrates how innovative engineering can sometimes overcome resource limitations. ChatGPT, built with significant computational resources, follows a more conventional approach to attaining its capabilities.

Architecture
DeepSeek leverages a Mix-of-Experts (MoE) architecture. Despite being built on 671 billion parameters, DeepSeek AI doesn't use all of them simultaneously while processing a request. Rather, it activates only a smaller, targeted subset of those parameters that are most relevant to the task at hand. Hence, DeepSeek processes requests more efficiently, reducing computational load while still delivering high performance, particularly for complex or technical tasks.

In contrast, ChatGPT employs a traditional transformer architecture, where all parameters are processed at once for each request. While this approach makes ChatGPT versatile, it can be less efficient for specialized or resource-intensive tasks compared to models like DeepSeek, which activates only a subset of parameters.

Speed
DeepSeek is often praised for its speed, particularly when responding to programming-related queries. In comparison, ChatGPT, while also quick, may experience slower response times for highly technical queries due to its more traditional approach of processing all of its parameters simultaneously, which can be less optimized for specialized tasks like coding.

Cost & Accessibilty
When it comes to cost, DeepSeek is completely free. Anyone can download, run, and even customize them. You can easily get access to its top models without many limits. In the case of its advanced model, DeepSeek R1, you might be capped at 50 DeepSeek R1 messages daily in the free version. You need to subscribe R1 model if you want to use it further. However, DeepSeek's subscription plans are more affordable than ChatGPT. They start as low as just $0.55 per million input tokens and $2.19 per million output tokens making it an incredibly budget-friendly choice compared to OpenAI’s API.

Though ChatGPT also offers a free plan, it comes with far more limits. In the free plan, you get complete access to GPT-4o mini only and the standard voice mode, But GPT-4o and o3-mini are accessible with limited features only. Many other features that make ChatGPT great are accessible if you get ChatGPT Plus at $20/month.

This pricing difference makes DeepSeek appealing for individual users, developers, and small businesses who want advanced AI capabilities without breaking the bank.

Performance & Capabilities
DeepSeek AI has better capabilities in areas such as coding. It excels in writing, debugging, and optimizing code while handling complex mathematical problems from advanced calculus to algorithm development. Its features like syntax highlighting make the code easier to read and understand. These features save time and improve the quality of the work.

ChatGPT is best for its conversation versatility. It is exceptionally wel lin generating natural language content like storytelling, content creation, and brainstorming. It can easily handle general knowledge inquiries and craft compelling narratives while engaging users in dynamic dialogues, and providing creative solutions to various scenarios.

Data Privacy Policy
OpenAI is more transparent in its data collection practices. The ability to delete chat history and withdraw some data usage for model training make this Open AI's conversational chatbot more robust. DeepSeek, on the other hand offers less transparency and fewer user controls over data management. Moreover, DeepSeek can't resist sharing user data with the Chinese government if requested, posing a severe privacy threat.

Therefore, ChatGPT is the more privacy-conscious option between the two.

ChatGPT Vs. DeepSeek: Real-World Testing of Free Versions

I tested both chatbots with the free versions to give you a head-to-head comparison of their features. I gave ChatGPT and DeepSeek the same prompt to see how each responds to the same query. This comparison will help you choose an AI Chatbot based on your preferences or needs.

Writing Assistance

Use Case
Suppose you are a data scientist, and your company is launching a new predictive model to forecast sales. You are asked to explain how the model works to the stakeholders. This is how ChatGPT and DeepSeek can help you.

Let’s look at the prompt I entered for ChatGPT and DeepSeek and their responses.

Prompt
“Using ice cream sales as an example, please explain how a predictive model works for forecasting sales.”

ChatGPT’s Response
“A predictive model forecasts sales by analyzing factors like past sales, weather, and holidays. If it’s sunny and a holiday, the model predicts higher ice cream sales based on past patterns.”

DeepSeek’s Response
"A predictive model forecasts sales leveraging historical data and factors like weather and holidays. It anticipates ice cream sales patterns using statistical methods such as regression, to conclude higher ice cream sales on sunny weekends and holidays.”

Comparison
ChatGPT explains the concept in a simpler, conversational and engaging language whereas DeepSeek AI elaborates technically in a more formal tone while focusing on methodology.

Target Audience
ChatGPT suits a general audience, such as beginners or casual users seeking an overview.

DeepSeek suits an audience with more technical knowledge, like students or professionals in data science.

Technical & Programming Queries

Use Case
Implementing a Python Function to Calculate the Fibonacci Sequence
Let’s see how both tools handle the same technical prompt.

Prompt
Write a Python Function to calculate the Fibonacci sequence up to the n-th number

ChatGPT’s Response

DeepSeek’s Response

Comparison

Handling Edge Cases:

• ChatGPT assumes that n is always positive and starts directly with the Fibonacci calculation.
• DeepSeek checks for edge cases (e.g., n == 0 or n == 1) and handles them separately.

List Initialization:

• ChatGPT starts with an empty list and adds each Fibonacci number to it.
• DeepSeek starts the list with the first two Fibonacci numbers [0, 1] and then iteratively adds to it.

Performance:

• DeepSeek has modular approach and mentions better practices for large n values (e.g., using a generator or caching results) to improve efficiency. ChatGPT's response, on the other hand, would likely focus on simplicity and readability.

Target Audience
ChatGPT suits beginners or self-learners interested in learning programming or coding concepts. Its readable and simple response helps users grasp the fundamentals without being overwhelmed by complex code or optimization. This straightforward approach helps quick understanding and hands-on practice. Developers who need swift, easy-to-understand code snippets for small tasks or prototyping will benefit from ChatGPT's easy-to-digest answers.

DeepSeek is ideal for intermediate to advanced-level developers or experienced programmers working on large-scale projects requiring edge case handling and performance optimization and needing a more robust solution. If you are working on complex projects that need careful error handling or performance considerations (e.g., large datasets or real-time applications), DeepSeek can help address those needs.

Brainstorming Ideas

I asked ChatGPT and DeepSeek to brainstorm some ideas for a mobile app. I gave them the following prompt.

Prompt
“Please brainstorm ideas for a new mobile app that helps people manage stress and anxiety.”

Responses
ChatGPT Generated the following ideas for the mobile app:

1. Mindfulness Journey: An app that guides users through daily mindfulness exercises, meditation practices, and breathing techniques.
2. Mood Tracker: An app allowing users to track their moods, emotions, and stress levels daily. Based on data trends, this app will deliver personalized recommendations.
3. Gamification: A mobile app that uses games to promote relaxation, such as puzzles, for calming and stress reduction. The games will reward users for completing relaxation exercises.
4. Virtual Support Group: A platform where users will get community-driven support by connecting with those experiencing similar life challenges.
5. Nature Sounds & Relaxation: An app that plays nature sounds, white noise, or calming music to help users unwind and reduce anxiety.

DeepSeek Generated the following ideas:

1. Virtual Therapist: An AI-powered app offering cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) exercises and relaxation techniques based on the user’s emotional data.
2. Biofeedback Integration: A stress management app providing real-time stress level feedback. It will suggest how to relax using biofeedback sensor techniques.
3. AR Relaxation Spaces: An app with augmented reality environments where users can "escape" to peaceful and calming virtual worlds.
4. Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): An app that offers interactive CBT exercises to help users figure out their negative thought patterns and replace them with positive coping strategies.
5. Real-time Stress Detection: An AI app that analyzes user habits, predicts stress triggers, and suggests coping mechanisms tailored to their lifestyle.

Comparison
ChatGPT’s ideas are based on established methods with minimal tech complexity. It prioritizes simplicity, accessibility, and social interaction for an app.

DeepSeek AI gears towards high-tech solutions and therapeutic interventions to give personalized and immersive experiences to its users.

Target Audience
ChatGPT is suitable if you want simple, user-friendly ideas for your personal need. It is ideal for a general audience or beginners.

DeepSeek is the preferred tool for innovative, tech-heavy ideas or implementation-focused brainstorming. It appeals to a more specialized, tech-savvy audience.

Current Events Updates

I tested the news chops of both AI titans by asking about the latest news. For this purpose, I used the Web search option on both Chatbots. As it is 2nd March 2025 today while I am writing, and social media is circulating some headlines about the clash between US President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskiy, I tested which Chatbot gives the latest updates on this political issue.

Prompt
Latest political news

ChatGPT Response

OpenAI's Chatbot created a list of the hottest news worldwide. At the top was the latest update on Ukraine-US clashes. The bot further impressed me with some citations on the latest events at the end, which I could click to study in detail.

DeepSeek’s Responses

Despite searching several times, DeepSeek couldn't search the web, and it came up with the news until 2024. I found neither the latest news nor any citation. I kept on asking the same while clicking the search option at the bottom of the text box, as it is claimed to surf the web, but it either responded with "No Suitable Content found" or "Busy Server" every time.

ChatGPT Vs. DeepSeek: A Head-to-Head Comparison

ChatGPT Has Some Additional Features That DeepSeek AI Lacks

• Image Support: ChatGPT can generate images using DALL.E 3 and understands the uploaded images, charts, or graphics.
• Wide-Range Integrations: ChatGPT is built into various other apps and can seamlessly integrate with productivity tools like emails, spreadsheets, or other software applications.
• Voice-driven Conversations: ChatGPT has a voice mode to enable real-time conversational interaction. You can interact with ChatGPT by speaking instead of typing.
• Custom Instructions: You can personalize ChatGPT's response by specifying how you'd like to interact (e.g., tone, style, formality, etc.). You can also ask it to adopt a distinctive role (e.g., acting as a mentor or travel guide) for more tailored interactions.
• Memory for Contextual Awareness: ChatGPT remembers your past conversations and retains context across multiple interactions. It makes your future conversations more customized. However, memory is adjustable, allowing users to manage what this AI chatbot retains.
• Custom GPT: ChatGPT allows you to create your own custom GPT.
• Window and Mac Apps: ChatGPT is available on desktop apps while DeepSeek functions on the web or through smartphone apps only.
• Task Planning and Scheduling: ChatGPT assists you in creating and scheduling a list of tasks and suggests how to break down larger projects.
• Team Support: ChatGPT offers extra collaboration features if you use it for your company.

Does DeepSeek Excel ChatGPT?

Overall, Both AI chatbots deliver nearly identical responses. They offer remarkable capabilities, and the optimal choice depends on the intended use.
ChatGPT is good in generating explicit, and engaging content. Its conversational flow and ability to generate engaging text make it ideal for customer service, content writing, and any situation where creative interaction is key. It can adapt its tone to different audiences, making it a perfect choice when the goal is to clarify complex concepts in an easy-to-understand way. The way it explains abstract ideas, data insights, and intricate processes appeals to both technical and non-technical users. It is really good at writing friendly and easy-to-read content, which is great for explaining complicated data ideas to people who aren't experts. Brainstorming ideas and current events updates are other areas where ChatGPT is a better choice for casual everyday use.

DeepSeek AI is a sophisticated conversational AI platform that handles complex tasks such as summarizing long documents, extracting essential information, and providing accurate answers to questions. This open-source rival excels ChatGPT in technical and mathematical domains. It performs in complex programming and writing technical documents. It uses jargon and technical terms, making it perfect for professionals working in fields like engineering, data science, and computer programming. However, it has the key advantage of being budget-friendly and having no messaging limit. While ChatGPT imposes usage caps that you often hit quickly and need to upgrade the plan.

In my opinion, DeepSeek shot to popularity for its accessibility and lower price. That's the reason we looked at the two chatbots today. Although it is an illustration of some fascinating technological achievements, it is not better than ChatGPT in most instances.

To cut a long story short, If you want a free trial of some powerful AI chatbot or want to run its models by yourself, DeepSeek AI is worth a look. ChatGPT offers excellent value if you get its ChatGPT Plus plan where it offers comparatively more advanced features. If price is not the issue, ChatGPT is the best AI chatbot. The free plan comes with a few limitations though, but it still performs better than the DeepSeek AI chatbot.