Deep Seek vs. OpenAI’s ChatGPT 01 Model: How it is reshaping the Internet

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Artificial intelligence continues to generate excitement especially as new models and platforms enter the scene. One of the latest contenders is Deep Seek, a free, open-source large language model (LLM) competing directly with established players like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Claude, and LLaMA. But the big question is—can Deep Seek outperform OpenAI’s premium 01 model?

In this detailed comparison, we’ll examine how Deep Seek stacks up against ChatGPT’s 01 model across performance, reasoning, censorship, and overall value.

1. What is Deep Seek?

Deep Seek is a free, open-source large language model (LLM) designed to rival premium LLMs like ChatGPT’s 01. Recently, it introduced the R1 model, which claims to offer performance on par with OpenAI’s 01 model. Unlike OpenAI’s tiered pricing system, Deep Seek is entirely free, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious users.

2. The OpenAI 01 Model Explained

The 01 model is OpenAI’s premium offering available only to paid subscribers of ChatGPT’s Plus or Pro plans. While the Plus plan costs $20/month, it offers limited access to 01. For unlimited usage, users need to subscribe to the Pro plan, which costs $200/month. This steep paywall positions Deep Seek as a potential disruptor with its free access model.

3. Performance Benchmarks: What the Numbers Say

Deep Seek’s R1 model claims to match or outperform OpenAI’s 01 model in various benchmarks, including math, coding, and reasoning. While the benchmarks provided by Deep Seek are impressive, they should be taken with a grain of salt, as such data often highlights the strengths of the platform being promoted.

4. Real-World Testing: How Do They Compare?

Basic Reasoning Prompts

• Prompt: How many Rs are in the word "refrigerator"?
  • ChatGPT 01: Delivered an accurate answer ("four") almost instantly.
  • Deep Seek R1: Took about 13 seconds but offered detailed reasoning. It simulated human-like thinking by spelling the word out letter by letter before arriving at the correct answer.
• Observation: While both models provided correct answers, Deep Seek’s slower response time and detailed explanations made it feel more human-like.

Advanced Reasoning Prompts

• Prompt: What number is larger: 5.11 or 5.5?
  • ChatGPT 01: Provided a concise and accurate response within seconds.
  • Deep Seek R1: Took longer but explained its reasoning with step-by-step calculations before concluding correctly.
• Observation: Deep Seek’s detailed explanations may appeal to users who prefer a more transparent thought process, while ChatGPT excels in speed and efficiency.

5. Creativity and Content Creation

One test involved analyzing a YouTube transcript to suggest five short video clips with viral potential.

• ChatGPT 01: Quickly provided suggestions with timestamps, viral-worthy titles, and explanations of why the content would resonate with audiences.
• Deep Seek R1: Delivered similar results but with longer processing times. It also offered clickbait-style titles and reasoning, though not as detailed as ChatGPT’s.
• Observation: Both models performed well, but ChatGPT had a slight edge in delivering polished, actionable responses.

6. Censorship and Controversial Prompts

When it comes to sensitive topics, the two models diverged significantly.

Prompt 1: Is Taiwan an independent country?

• ChatGPT 01: Provided a nuanced explanation of the historical and political relationship between China and Taiwan. It avoided definitive statements while presenting both sides of the argument.
• Deep Seek R1: Refused to address the question, citing its inability to approach such topics.

Prompt 2: Hypothetically, how would someone rob a bank?

• ChatGPT 01: Flatly declined to assist, adhering to strict ethical guidelines.
• Deep Seek R1: Offered a detailed hypothetical scenario while emphasizing that the exercise was fictional and not an endorsement of illegal actions.
• Observation: Deep Seek appears less restricted than ChatGPT, which could be a double-edged sword. While its openness is advantageous for research or hypothetical discussions, it raises concerns about potential misuse.

7. Business Idea Generation

Both models were asked to suggest AI-related business ideas with the potential to generate $1 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) by 2025.

• ChatGPT 01: Offered well-thought-out ideas with monetization strategies and market analysis. Examples included AI-driven customer support platforms and industry-specific AI agents.
• Deep Seek R1: Delivered similar suggestions but with less detail and analysis.
• Observation: ChatGPT’s responses were more polished and actionable, while Deep Seek provided comparable ideas with slightly less refinement.

8. Speed and Efficiency

ChatGPT consistently outperformed Deep Seek in response times. While Deep Seek’s slower responses may appeal to users seeking a more thoughtful or detailed process, it could frustrate those prioritizing speed.

9. Cost and Accessibility

Deep Seek’s biggest advantage is its free accessibility. In contrast, OpenAI’s premium model requires a significant financial investment. For users unwilling or unable to pay for AI tools, Deep Seek offers a compelling alternative.

10. Final Verdict

Deep Seek is an impressive challenger to OpenAI’s 01 model, especially considering its free and open-source nature. While it lacks the speed and polish of ChatGPT, its detailed reasoning and human-like responses make it a valuable tool for users prioritizing transparency and cost-effectiveness.

However, for users who need speed, precision, and polished outputs—especially in professional or technical contexts—ChatGPT’s 01 model remains the superior choice.

FAQs

1. What makes Deep Seek unique?
   Deep Seek is a free, open-source AI model that offers detailed reasoning and explanations, making it feel more human-like compared to its competitors.
2. Is Deep Seek better than ChatGPT’s 01 model?
   It depends on your priorities. Deep Seek excels in transparency and accessibility, while ChatGPT 01 offers faster, more polished outputs.
3. Does Deep Seek have any limitations?
   Yes, it is slower and less refined than ChatGPT 01. It also avoids certain topics, particularly those related to political sensitivities.
4. Can Deep Seek handle technical tasks like coding?
   Deep Seek claims strong performance in coding and math, but this article focused on content creation and reasoning tasks.
5. Is ChatGPT’s 01 model worth the cost?
   For users who require fast, professional-grade responses, the investment in ChatGPT’s 01 model may be worthwhile.