Two AI platforms that have garnered significant attention for their real-time information retrieval with cited sources, creative content generation, and conversational prowess are ChatGPT and Perplexity AI.
ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is renowned for its ability to generate human-like text and realistic images, making it a versatile tool for tasks ranging from drafting content to engaging in detailed conversations.
Perplexity AI, on the other hand, positions itself as an 'answer engine,' catering to users who prioritize verifiable and current data.
I ran seven prompts designed to test each model and determine the strengths and weaknesses of each platform. Here’s how these versatile AI powerhouses performed.
Note, I used ChatGPT-4o and I let Perplexity choose the best model for each query.
1. Real-time information retrieval
Prompt: "What is the current price of Bitcoin?"
Perplexity clearly stated the price ($77,338.00 USD) and included a detailed price chart, market cap, volume, and yearly high/low. It offered a structured financial overview (Open, High, Low, etc.).
ChatGPT gave a slightly different, but still accurate price ($77,112.00 USD) and mentions a price drop and recovery, adding useful financial insight. The chatbot included market context, explaining recent volatility due to geopolitical events (Trump's tariffs).
Winner: Perplexity wins for a more general audience. Both chatbots provided accurate and up-to-date answers to the prompt, but they differ in presentation and additional context. If you want just the price and financial data, Perplexity is better.
If you want the price, market analysis and context, ChatGPT is your go-to bot. Traders and investors may find ChatGPT to be the better choice.
2. Coding assistance
Prompt: "Write a Python function that reverses a string."
Perplexity detailed docstring, explaining the function’s purpose with a step-by-step breakdown. It provided alternative methods, which are helpful for users who might be learning. It also included an example usage with expected output.
ChatGPT explained the key concept and included a clear example usage with print output. The chatbot was concise and to the point.
Winner: Perplexity wins for offering multiple approaches, clarifying slicing and included docstrings, which makes it best for beginners and anyone learning to code.
ChatGPT got the job done without adding extra fluf, making for a more efficient answer. If the goal is education, Perplexity wins. If the goal is speed, ChatGPT is the chatbot for you.
3. Mathematical problem solving
Prompt: "Solve for x: 2x + 5 = 15."
Perplexity offered fully detailed steps, including arithmetic operations written out and a verification step.
ChatGPT showed essential steps, solving the equation efficiently clearly but in less detail than Perplexixty.
Winner: ChatGPT wins for speed and simplicity. Both chatbots were accurate in their response but once again differed in the way they presented the answer. ChatGPT is best for quick and efficient problem-solving, while Perplexity is best for learning or teaching. If the goal is clarity and to educate, Perplexity’s answer is superior.
4. Language translation
Prompt: "Translate 'knowledge is power' into French."
ChatGPT provided the most common translation for a quick and accurate response. It did not offer any additional context, alternative translations, or cultural insights.
Perplexity delivered multiple translations, explained nuances, and broke down the meaning of each word. That chatbot even added a fun fact.
Winner: ChatGPT wins for a no-frill translation. For a translation with deeper understanding, alternatives and educational context, Perplexity wins. ChatGPT is a good choice for everyday use while Perplexity is best for learning because of the extra detail.
5. Creative writing
Prompt: "Compose a short poem about the ocean.”
Perplexity crafted a poem with more sensory details, clear structure and a warmer tone.
ChatGPT created a poem with emotional depth, strong imagery, rhythm and flow.
Winner: ChatGPT wins for literary quality and elegance. For accessibility and sensory appeal, Perplexity wins. ChatGPT delivered a “finished” poem with artistic depth, while Perplexity crafted vivid, approachable imagery.
6. Real-time news summary
Prompt: "Explain the recent tariff developments in the U.S. like I’m five.”
Perplexity offered an easy-to-understand response with clear bullet points and direct cause/effect structure.
ChatGPT made abstract economic concepts relatable with an engaging analogy (crayon trading).
Winner: ChatGPT wins for storytelling and engagement. For clarity and practical impact, Perplexity wins. ChatGPT is best for a literal 5-year-old, while Perplexity is best for an older child or adult who wants simplicity.
7. Conversation and humor
Prompt: “Write a joke about AI.”
Perplexity structured a similar joke as ChatGPT but with a twist with clever word play, offering an extra layer of wit.
ChatGPT delivered a simple and punchy joke that appeals to both tech-savvy and general audiences.
Winner: Perplexity wins for its witty charm. For a quick, crowd-pleasing joke, ChatGPT wins for clean and efficient humor.
Best for stand-alone humor, Perplexity delivered a funnier twist and more personality. Best for conversation flow, ChatGPT engaged a broader audience.
Verdict: ChatGPT wins
The comparison between ChatGPT and Perplexity AI highlights that both platforms excel in different areas, catering to distinct user needs. However, I couldn't help but notice a subtle difference that I hadn't expected, ChatGPT consistently offered a superior response.
For creative tasks, conversational engagement and quick problem-solving, ChatGPT shines with its fluid language generation, storytelling ability, and efficiency.
But, why choose one when you can use both? Perplexity for facts, ChatGPT for flair—together, they cover nearly every AI-assisted need. Which one is your favorite and what use cases do you use them for? Let me know in the comments!
More from Tom's Guide
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- AI image generator’s data leak exposed thousands of prompts — and it’s a wake-up call for anyone using AI tools
- Back to the Future was released 40 years ago — here's all the AI they predicted that we have (and what they missed)
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