I tested 5 AI chatbots and here’s the one I’d pick

AI chatbots have evolved from novelty to essential tools for millions. OpenAI’s ChatGPT reached 100 million users two months after launch. This sparked an industry race as tech giants and startups launched new large language models. Let’s compare five major AI chatbots to evaluate their features and performance for general users.

How each chatbot’s knowledge range compares

All chatbots train on large datasets and diverse internet texts, which gives them a broad knowledge of history, science, and pop culture. Gemini leverages Google’s vast information ecosystem. It was trained on trillions of words and retrieves Google Search results for up-to-date answers.

Grok, ChatGPT, and DeepSeek have real-time search features to fetch current information beyond their training. Claude lacks active web access. However, users can provide internet text and ask it to process that content.

Accuracy varies on complex or niche questions. Grok 3 and DeepSeek R1 perform strongly on specialized benchmarks, such as complex math problems or logic puzzles. ChatGPT and Gemini are strong generalists. All models sometimes hallucinate facts, so none are fully reliable. Still, all five models perform well on broad knowledge queries and everyday accuracy.

How each chatbot performs creative writing tasks

Each chatbot exhibits unique creative output and writing strengths. According to users, Claude is the top choice for natural, human-like writing. ChatGPT and Gemini are more verbose and formal by default, but they mimic any style with guidance.

Grok responds with a fun twist. This trait makes Grok entertaining for creative writing or casual conversation, as it uses jokes and pop culture references. DeepSeek focuses on technical tasks.

How each chatbot lets users customize their experience

User customization is key. Gemini and ChatGPT let users create custom AI assistants. Gemini has gems, and ChatGPT has a GPT builder. Claude supports customizing response styles instead of creating separate assistants. Users can set and save tone preferences by uploading sample content.

Grok functions as a standalone AI assistant with limited customization. DeepSeek is an open source platform with powerful customization, but it requires programming experience and is not user-friendly for non-technical users.

How each chatbot handles voice interactions

Gemini offers Gemini Live, a native voice interaction that is available in multiple languages. It leverages Google’s expertise with voice technologies like Google Assistant. It has accurate speech recognition and command interpretation, especially for tasks within Google’s ecosystem, such as search and maps. The voice output is smooth and conversational but formal.

DeepSeek and Claude are text-based but support voice via third-party tools. However, this is less seamless than native voice support. Grok 3 has multiple personalities. Its accuracy remains medium, with inconsistent responses and repetition.

ChatGPT features a well-established voice chat with multilingual support. It offers high accuracy in understanding and responding to voice commands through real-time speech recognition and natural responses. However, some users noted occasional creepy behaviors like mimicking the user’s tone.

How each chatbot protects data

Each chatbot is backed by a company with distinct policies. ChatGPT trains on conversation data by default, but users can turn off model training. OpenAI enforces strict policies that block sensitive material. Claude does not use user data to train its models by default unless conversations are flagged for safety review. Claude also rejects harmful or toxic prompts.

Google has decades of experience handling user data securely. Gemini conversations link to a Google account, and users can delete their activity. Google doesn’t use user data to train its models without consent. Gemini avoids unauthorized prompts and adheres to its safety filters.

Grok’s privacy policies align with X’s. X users can opt out of data sharing, but by default, X uses public posts and Grok conversations to improve the AI. Grok avoids explicit hate speech or illegal content but is more permissive about sensitive topics.

DeepSeek’s Chinese base raises data security concerns. South Korea alleges that DeepSeek has shared user data with TikTok’s parent company in China. Unlike other platforms, DeepSeek lets users store their data on a personal server, giving total control over security. Chinese AI must follow local censorship rules. DeepSeek may block or provide generic responses on politically sensitive topics related to China’s politics or history.

There’s no one-size-fits-all

With so many AI chatbots available, finding the right one comes down to needs. ChatGPT and Gemini perform strongly as well-rounded generalists. Grok delivers humor and personality. Claude excels in natural writing. DeepSeek offers an open-ended approach for technical users who value customization.