Gemini vs ChatGPT: A Comparison of AI Assistants


10 Minutes

Abstract AI image that shows two robotic hands pointing upwards

In the ever-evolving world of large language models (LLMs), two titans stand out: Gemini and ChatGPT. Both are adept at generating human-quality text. They excel at translating languages. They can write different kinds of creative content. They also answer your questions in an informative way. But with such similar functionalities, which one reigns supreme? Let’s delve into a breakdown of Gemini and ChatGPT. We will explore their strengths and weaknesses. This will help you decide which AI assistant best suits your needs.

Where did these two come from?

To see where we’re going, we first need to know where we came from, right?

Cut from a similar cloth, these two LLMs came about with similar timelines. Gemini is a powerful LLM developed by Google and powered by the LaMDA (Language Model for Dialogue Applications) technology. Created by OpenAI, ChatGPT is a prominent LLM field player known for its GPT-3 and GPT-4 iterations. 

In focus and trained up on data.

In order to get people answers, these two titans need to have a pool of information to draw from. So, where do each of these get their training data from? 

Gemini

Still under development, Gemini is known for its focus on factual accuracy and leverages real-time data from the internet for training, ensuring up-to-date information, and safety in its responses.

ChatGPT

The free version of Chat GPT was primarily trained on data up until 2021. On the paid side, ChatGPT has access to and learns from current information up until 2023. Both have a focus on creative text formats, engaging conversation, and an ability to generate different writing styles.

Biggest flexes and failings.

If you’re going to be using any sort of LLM to help you in your work or every day, you should probably know the good and the bad when it comes to the two biggest AI assistants.

Gemini

Strengths

  • Excels in reasoning and comprehension
  • Good for real-time information tasks
  • Performs well on academic benchmarks
  • Delivers factual and objective responses

Weaknesses

  • Less creative output
  • Focused on structure over style

ChatGPT

Strengths

  • Creative text formats (poems, code, musical pieces)
  • Diverse writing styles
  • Ability to brainstorm ideas
  • Can engage in informative conversations

Weaknesses

  • Fact-checking might be necessary if using the free version 
  • “Hallucinations” or less precise information

AI aid for all.

Both Gemini and ChatGPT offer easy access for those disabilities, whether short- or long-term based. They are text-based communication tools built onto a simple front end, are available 24/7 and offer multilingual support, making them an invaluable asset to add to your accessibility toolkit.

Can we trust the robots?

As part of Google’s overarching “Do no evil” ideal, Gemini emphasizes responsible AI practices and strives for transparency in its outputs. ChatGPT, on the other hand, has admitted that transparency is a developing area for them, with some concerns raised by people about potential biases in responses and hallucinations in answers. Having a program that hallucinates, or makes things up and believes them to be true, is a little bit troubling, to be sure.

The Prompt Challenge

Let’s see how these AI assistants perform with different prompts. 

Prompt #1

Write a short poem about a cat.

ChatGPT

In shadows deep, where moonlight weaves, 
A whiskered prowler softly creeps, 
Eyes aglow like amber moons, 
A silent hunter in the gloom.
With velvet paws and nimble grace, 
Through gardens and the urban maze, 
Whiskers twitch, alert and keen, 
Invisible worlds the cat has seen.
A purring symphony at rest, 
Upon the lap of warmth’s soft nest, 
Yet wild within, a spirit roams, 
In dreams, the night, where freedom roams.
O mysterious feline, enigma clad, 
In your gaze, ancient secrets had, 
Guardian of the nocturnal veil, 
In your presence, myths prevail.
So dance upon the moonlit eaves, 
And weave your magic ‘mongst the leaves, 
For in your essence, grace and poise, 
You’re a muse of whispers and of joys.

Gemini

Emerald eyes, a velvet gaze, 
Sunbeam dreams in a playful daze. 
Whiskers twitch with silent glee, 
A hunter’s heart, a soul so free.

Outcome: Notice how ChatGPT creates a longer and more effusive poem. Gemini, while still technically writing a poem, is shorter and to the point. You could certainly get both to a point that you like by giving a more descriptive prompt or with more constraints but this is the bare minimum. 

Prompt #2

“Create a blog outline for “Top 5 Tips for Balcony Gardening.” Use a friendly and educational tone.” 

ChatGPT

  1. Introduction
    • Welcome readers to the world of balcony gardening.
    • Briefly explain the appeal and benefits of gardening on balconies.
    • Set the tone for a friendly and informative discussion.
  2. Tip 1: Assess Your Balcony Space
    • Explain the importance of understanding your balcony’s dimensions and layout.
    • Discuss factors like sunlight exposure and wind patterns.
    • Offer practical tips for maximizing space efficiency.
  3. Tip 2: Choose the Right Plants
    • Introduce readers to plant options that thrive in containers and small spaces.
    • Highlight herbs, vegetables, and flowers that are well-suited for balcony gardens.
    • Provide insights into selecting plants based on local climate and balcony conditions.
  4. Tip 3: Master Container Gardening
    • Guide readers on selecting the right containers, emphasizing size, material, and drainage.
    • Offer creative ideas for vertical gardening and space-saving solutions.
    • Share tips on soil preparation, watering schedules, and plant care in containers.
  5. Tip 4: Watering and Maintenance Made Easy
    • Discuss the basics of watering balcony plants, emphasizing the importance of consistency.
    • Provide guidance on maintaining healthy soil and preventing common issues like overwatering.
    • Offer practical tips for fertilizing and periodic plant maintenance.
  6. Tip 5: Enhance Your Balcony Oasis
    • Encourage readers to personalize their balcony space with decorative elements.
    • Suggest ways to incorporate seating, lighting, and garden accessories.
    • Inspire creativity in designing a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor retreat.
  7. Conclusion
    • Recap the top tips for successful balcony gardening: assessing space, choosing plants, mastering containers, watering wisely, and enhancing the environment.
    • Encourage readers to start their balcony gardening journey with confidence.
    • Invite feedback and encourage readers to share their balcony gardening experiences.
  8. Additional Resources
    • Provide links to further reading on balcony gardening techniques and plant care.
    • Recommend tools, books, or online communities for additional support and inspiration.

This outline maintains a friendly and educational tone throughout, aiming to empower readers with practical advice and inspiration for creating thriving balcony gardens.

Gemini

I.Introduction:

  • Ever dreamed of having your own little garden, but think you lack the space? Don’t worry, balcony gardening is here to save the day!
  • Briefly discuss the benefits of balcony gardening – fresh herbs, beautiful flowers, a pop of nature in your urban haven.
  • Briefly mention the target audience – anyone with a balcony, no green thumb required.

Top 5 Tips:

  1. Sun Searchers: Not all balconies are created equal! Let’s figure out how much sunlight yours gets and choose plants that will thrive in those conditions. (We’ll explore some sun-loving and shade-loving options!)
  2. Pot Power: Picking the perfect container is key! We’ll discuss different materials, sizes, and drainage options to keep your plant babies happy. (Bonus tip: Upcycle some fun containers!)
  3. Watering Wisdom: Watering can be tricky! We’ll unveil the secrets to keeping your plants hydrated without drowning them. (Learn about underwatering and overwatering signs!)
  4. Feast or Famine? Plants need a balanced diet too! Let’s explore different fertilizers and how to nourish your balcony garden for healthy growth. (Bonus tip: Composting for the eco-conscious gardener!)
  5. Balcony Bliss: Now that your plants are thriving, let’s talk about enjoying the fruits (and veggies!) of your labor. Harvesting tips and ideas for using your balcony bounty!

Conclusion:

  • Celebrate the joy of balcony gardening!
  • Briefly mention additional resources for balcony gardening enthusiasts.
  • End with an encouraging call to action – invite readers to share their balcony garden pictures or ask questions in the comments.

Outcome: ChatGPT is giving you more direction for writing your blog while Gemini seems to be writing the blog post for you. Depending on what you’re looking for, either would work.

Prompt #3

“Write me social media captions for Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and TikTok for this blog post: QA & Testing: what goes into a successful site launch?

ChatGPT

Instagram:

🚀 Launching a website is no small feat! 🌐 Dive into the intricacies of QA testing and discover the secret sauce behind a seamless site launch. 🛠️✨ Click the link in bio to read more! #WebDevelopment #QATesting #SiteLaunch #TechTalks

X (formerly Twitter):

Preparing for a site launch? 🖥️ Learn the essentials of QA testing and ensure your website shines from day one. Dive into our latest blog post for expert insights! 🌟 #QATesting #WebDev #SiteLaunch

LinkedIn:

Launching a new website? Quality Assurance (QA) testing is a critical step to ensure success. Our latest blog post delves into the essential components of a thorough QA process and how it can make or break your site launch. Read on for valuable insights and practical tips! 🚀🔍 #QATesting #WebDevelopment #SiteLaunch #TechInsights

TikTok:

Planning a website launch? 🌐🖥️ QA testing is your best friend! Discover the key steps to a flawless launch in our latest blog post. Link in bio! #WebDevelopment #QATesting #SiteLaunch #TechTips

Gemini

Instagram:

Launching a website soon? Don’t forget the QA testing! Our latest blog dives deep into what makes a successful site launch. Link in bio! #QATesting #WebsiteLaunch #WebDevelopment

LinkedIn:

Is your website launch prepped for success? Our new blog post explores the crucial role of QA testing in ensuring a smooth and bug-free user experience. Read more: [link to blog post] #QATesting #WebsiteManagement #DigitalMarketing

TikTok:

Launching a website without QA testing? Big mistake! Watch this quick video to learn why QA is key to a successful launch. #WebsiteLaunchTips #TechTips #QATesting (Consider using a short, engaging video clip related to QA testing for the TikTok post)

Outcome: Similar outputs from each though ChatGPT uses emojis and more descriptive language. A better jumping off point though we think you could still add some personalization and personality to make these social captions fit better with your company or brand.

When it all comes down to it.

Both Gemini and ChatGPT offer valuable functionalities. Gemini excels in providing factual, well-structured outputs, making it ideal for tasks like outlines and summaries. ChatGPT’s creative flair shines through in poems or story ideas, its factual accuracy might require some user verification.

Ultimately, the “better” platform depends on your specific needs.  If you prioritize accuracy and clear information, Gemini might be your go-to AI. If you’re trying to make something a little more creative, ChatGPT is probably the better choice. Honestly, the best approach is to experiment with both and see which AI assistant sparks your imagination and streamlines your workflow for you. 

As well, the evolving landscape that is LLMs means that both models are under continuous development, so their capabilities and features might change over time. So make sure you keep up to date on the AI you’re using and that it still meets your needs. And always, double check the work before you publish anything online in case there has been a mistake.