DeepSeek AI: What It Is, How It Works, and How It Stacks Up Against ChatGPT

In Technology
January 28, 2025

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has taken significant strides in revolutionizing the way we interact with technology. Among the rapidly advancing AI platforms, DeepSeek AI has emerged as a strong contender, rivaling giants like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. With its unique features and performance capabilities, DeepSeek AI has gained significant attention, in early 2025. But what exactly is DeepSeek AI? How does it compare to ChatGPT?

This article will delve into everything you need to know about DeepSeek AI, including its comparison with ChatGPT.

What is DeepSeek AI?

DeepSeek AI is an artificial intelligence platform that was founded by Liang Wenfeng in May 2023. The platform gained widespread recognition in early 2025, thanks to its release of the advanced language models, DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1. DeepSeek’s main focus is to deliver efficient, cost-effective AI solutions with powerful reasoning capabilities. By employing a cutting-edge Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture, DeepSeek is designed to activate only a small portion of its model’s parameters during each task. This efficient use of resources allows DeepSeek to deliver high-performance AI outputs without the massive computing power.

The platform excels in providing answers to complex queries, especially those requiring reasoning and deep thought. It positioning itself as a key player in the world of AI-powered virtual assistants.

How Does DeepSeek AI Work?

DeepSeek AI is powered by two primary models:

  1. DeepSeek-V3: A general-purpose model designed for a wide range of tasks. It delivers impressive results in question answering and content generation, similar to other leading AI platforms.
  2. DeepSeek-R1: A specialized model focused on tasks that require reasoning and complex problem-solving. It excels in delivering step-by-step explanations for intricate queries, particularly those that involve advanced mathematical reasoning or logic.

Both models are built using the Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture, which activates only a small fraction of the model’s parameters during each query. Moreover, DeepSeek AI continuously learns and improves through a trial-and-error process that mimics human learning, making it an evolving AI tool.

How to Use R1 Model?

Getting started with DeepSeek is simple. The platform offers accessibility through both its website and mobile applications. Upon entering the platform, users are greeted with the default DeepSeek-V3 model. However, for more advanced reasoning tasks, users can select the DeepSeek-R1 option to switch to the model that specializes in complex problem-solving and advanced thought processes.

The R1 model can handle difficult questions by processing them carefully and offering detailed, thoughtful answers. While responses may take a few extra seconds to formulate, the insights provided are more comprehensive, making it an ideal choice for users seeking in-depth explanations and mathematical solutions.

DeepSeek AI vs ChatGPT: Key Differences and Which Is Better?

The competition between DeepSeek AI and ChatGPT is heating up, but each platform has its unique strengths. Let’s take a closer look at how these two models compare.

Performance and Capabilities

Both DeepSeek AI and ChatGPT are highly capable in answering questions, generating code, and providing contextually relevant information. DeepSeek’s R1 model, in particular, has demonstrated strong performance in handling complex reasoning tasks, often offering step-by-step explanations that rival ChatGPT’s advanced models.

However, ChatGPT provides more advanced features, such as:

  • Multimodal Capabilities: ChatGPT allows users to generate AI images and analyze images via its multimodal interface, something DeepSeek currently lacks.
  • Voice Interaction: ChatGPT offers voice-based interaction, making it more versatile for users who prefer to speak rather than type.
  • Customization: ChatGPT allows users to create personalized AI versions for specific tasks, such as “Insta Guru” or “DesignerGPT,” making it more flexible for different use cases.

On the other hand, DeepSeek focuses on delivering accurate, reasoned answers quickly and efficiently, making it a strong choice for users looking for precise, logical responses.

Cost and Accessibility

One of the most significant advantages DeepSeek offers over ChatGPT is its cost-effectiveness. DeepSeek AI is completely free to use for everyday tasks, and its API services are much cheaper than ChatGPT’s. The cost of using DeepSeek’s API is $0.55 per million input tokens and $2.19 per million output tokens, which is significantly lower than OpenAI’s pricing of $15 for input tokens and $60 for output tokens.

This makes DeepSeek a great option for users who need an AI assistant for routine tasks without worrying about costs. However, for users requiring access to advanced features or using APIs for backend coding tasks, DeepSeek does offer paid options, but the prices remain much more affordable than OpenAI’s offerings.

Which Is Better?

Deciding whether DeepSeek AI or ChatGPT is better depends largely on your specific needs. If you are looking for a straightforward AI assistant for daily tasks without the need for additional features, DeepSeek is an excellent choice. Its efficiency, low cost, and impressive reasoning capabilities make it ideal for users who want a reliable AI tool without the extra bells and whistles.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more comprehensive AI assistant with voice interaction, multimodal capabilities, and personalized versions for specific tasks, ChatGPT is likely a better fit. ChatGPT’s advanced features and extensive customization options make it a more robust platform for users with varied requirements.

Final Thoughts

DeepSeek AI is quickly establishing itself as a strong competitor to ChatGPT in the AI space. With its efficient use of resources, rapid development, and cost-effective pricing, it’s a great option for users seeking a practical AI assistant for routine tasks. While it may not offer all the features that ChatGPT does, DeepSeek’s focus on reasoning and detailed answers positions it as a reliable choice for users who prioritize depth and accuracy in responses. The rise of DeepSeek AI has disrupted the tech industry in ways that were previously unimaginable.

Ultimately, whether DeepSeek AI or ChatGPT is the better option comes down to the specific use case. Both platforms offer robust AI capabilities, but the choice depends on whether you need advanced features or a more focused, budget-friendly solution for complex tasks.

Key Takeaways:

  • DeepSeek AI is a new platform that competes with ChatGPT, founded in 2023 by Liang Wenfeng.
  • Its models, DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1, specialize in efficiency and cost-effectiveness, particularly in tasks requiring advanced reasoning.
  • DeepSeek AI is free to use for everyday queries, whereas ChatGPT offers more advanced features but at a cost.
  • Both AI platforms are excellent for answering questions, generating code, and providing insights, but the choice depends on your needs for advanced features and customization.