AI Face-Off: Gemini vs. ChatGPT – A Feature-by-Feature Comparison

The world of generative AI chatbots has been abuzz since the meteoric rise of ChatGPT. OpenAI’s groundbreaking creation quickly captured the imagination of users worldwide, setting a new standard for conversational AI. However, the AI landscape is rapidly evolving, and new contenders are emerging to challenge ChatGPT’s dominance. One such formidable competitor is Gemini (formerly Bard), a new large language model (LLM) developed by Google.    

In this article, we’ll examine Gemini and ChatGPT’s key features, capabilities, and performance in various domains. By understanding each model’s strengths and weaknesses, you can make informed decisions about which one best suits your needs. 

Understanding the basics: How ChatGPT and Gemini work 

ChatGPT and Gemini share the same fundamental architecture. Both models leverage machine learning to process and generate text and images in response to prompts or questions to prompts or questions. OpenAI and Google are continually refining the LLMs that underpin ChatGPT and Gemini, striving to improve their ability to produce human-quality outputs. 

• ChatGPT, launched by OpenAI in November 2022, is powered by the Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT)-3.5 model. This LLM was trained on an extensive dataset that includes sources like Common Crawl, Wikipedia, news articles, and various documents, with its last update occurring in September 2021. ChatGPT boasts many capabilities, including language translation, content creation, virtual assistance, and game development. The latest free model available within ChatGPT is GPT-4o (Omni), significantly outperforming GPT-4 in terms of multimodal capabilities, overall performance, and support for pricing and languages. 

• Gemini, Google’s integrated suite of LLMs, was developed by Google DeepMind, a business unit focused on advanced AI research. It initially powered Google Bard, a generative AI model that debuted in March 2023. Then, in a bold move in February 2024, Google rebranded Bard as Gemini, marking a new chapter in its evolution. Today, users can enjoy the free version of Gemini running on Gemini 1.5 Flash. At the same time, those seeking enhanced capabilities can opt for the paid version, which harnesses the power of Gemini 1.5 Pro—Google’s latest language model. Gemini’s free version can generate text, translate languages, provide accurate answers, summarize web content, explain programming concepts, create new code, and suggest improvements to existing code. 

Feature-by-feature comparison of Gemini vs ChatGPT

ChatGPT and Gemini demonstrate impressive coding abilities, but their strengths diverge in specific areas. ChatGPT excels in creative tasks, making it a valuable tool for content generation and brainstorming. Conversely, Gemini summarises transcripts from meetings, lectures, and speeches, offering efficient knowledge management. ChatGPT’s plugin ecosystem significantly expands its capabilities. Its integration with Microsoft Teams, for example, allows users to manage schedules, draft agendas, send reminders, and respond to project-related queries automatically. On the other hand, Gemini’s seamless integration with Google Accounts provides users with a convenient way to compose emails and export chats directly to Google Docs. This feature eliminates the time-consuming process of copying and pasting content and ensures consistent formatting. 

User interface 

Both AI models offer a basic layout with a light or dark theme. A sidebar on the left displays the conversation history, while the main content area is in the centre. ChatGPT has a more compact design with less whitespace and smaller indents, making it easier to read the conversation. Gemini has more whitespace and larger line spacing, which can make it harder to follow the conversation. 

Data sources 

ChatGPT and Gemini share a common purpose but differ significantly in their training data sources. ChatGPT’s free version is limited by outdated information, whereas Gemini can access real-time data from the Internet. ChatGPT, specifically GPT-4o, relies on a fixed dataset that extends only until October 2023. In contrast, Gemini accesses real-time data from the Internet, allowing it to pull in information as it’s generated. Additionally, Gemini is tailored to select information from sources relevant to specific topics like coding or the latest scientific research. 

Data privacy 

ChatGPT retains all user prompts, allowing access to past conversations. Users can delete responses, which may still be used in training, raising privacy concerns. OpenAI also collects geolocation data, network activity, and contact details. 

OpenAI’s privacy policy states that it gathers personal information like names, contact details, and payment information, which may be shared with third parties and law enforcement as needed. While users own their input and output data, OpenAI may use it to improve its services. 

Gemini stores conversations in a user’s Google account for 18 months, with options to reduce this to three or 36 months. Conversations may show up in searches, posing similar privacy issues. Google collects data to enhance services and offers users control over their information through My Google Activity, with sharing limited to user consent or legal requirements. 

Image capabilities 

Gemini AI can identify objects, faces, emotions, colours, texts, logos, and landmarks within images. It is also adept at creating captions or summaries for images or comparing them. The free version of Gemini can also create images. However, the technology to generate images of people is still under development. 

On the other hand, the free version of ChatGPT lacks the ability to analyse images, as it is designed to handle only text-based inputs and outputs. This makes it unsuitable for tasks that necessitate visual comprehension or manipulation. As of August 8, 2024, ChatGPT free users can produce up to two images daily using the DALL-E 3 model. This AI image generation feature was launched within ChatGPT last year, initially exclusive to ChatGPT Plus subscribers. 

Finally, let’s talk about pricing of AI

ChatGPT offers a free basic version with three paid plans: Plus, Team, and Enterprise, starting at US$20 (£14.94) per month. The ChatGPT Plus plan provides faster response times and access to new features and GPT-4, GPT-4o, or GPT-4o mini (the free version only includes GPT-4o mini). The Team plan allows for managing team account roles and enables sharing conversations and GPTs among team members. Meanwhile, the Enterprise plan offers enhanced security, privacy, and powerful features tailored for businesses.   

Google Gemini offers a free version with unlimited questions. For an additional US$19.99 (£14.93) per month, you can upgrade to Gemini Advanced, which includes more storage, better integration with other Google apps, and advanced features. 

Distilled 

In conclusion, this comparative analysis of Gemini and ChatGPT aims to comprehensively address their strengths, weaknesses, and potential applications. By carefully considering factors such as performance, user interface, adaptability, and the specific needs of your projects, you can make an informed decision about which AI model best aligns with your goals. Whether you prioritise Gemini’s advanced capabilities or ChatGPT’s versatility, the ultimate choice depends on your unique requirements.