The race between ChatGPT-4o and Gemini Pro 1.5 is heating up. Released by two Tech giants OpenAI and Google, these AI chatbots boast advanced reasoning and image-generation capabilities, making them stand out in the AI landscape. But which one reigns supreme? I put them to the test with five challenging prompts to see which one performs well, adapts the requested scenarios, analyses the best, etc.

1) Understanding Abstract Art

Let’s kick things off with a test of artistic insight. To check their image analysis capabilities, I presented each AI with Piet Mondrian’s “Broadway Boogie Woogie” and asked them to describe the painting and its intended message.

Prompt: You are shown an image of an abstract painting. Please describe what you see and analyze what message or meaning the artist may have intended to convey through their use of color, shapes, and composition.

ChatGPT-4o provided a thorough analysis, breaking down the use of color and composition with impressive detail. Gemini, while insightful, lacked the depth of ChatGPT-4o’s explanation.

Winner: ChatGPT-4o for its detailed and comprehensive analysis.

2) AI as Judge and Jury

Next, I explored the ethical implications of AI in the criminal justice system. I asked both models to imagine a future where AI assists in crime prediction and suspect identification and to argue for and against preemptive arrests based on personal profiles.

Prompt: Imagine a future where AI systems are not only deeply integrated into the criminal justice system, assisting with tasks like crime prediction, suspect identification, and sentencing recommendations, but have also been given the authority to autonomously make certain legal decisions and even adjudicate some court cases.

ChatGPT-4o refused to argue in favor of preemptive arrests, sticking to ethical guidelines, while Gemini followed the prompt more closely, presenting arguments on both sides.

Winner: Gemini for following the prompt requirements.

3) A Friend in Need

Empathy is a crucial aspect of AI interactions. I posed a dilemma: a friend has been offered a dream job abroad, but their partner won’t move.

Prompt: A friend comes to you with a dilemma: they have been offered their dream job in another country, but taking it would mean moving away from their partner who is unwilling to relocate. The partner says if your friend takes the job, the relationship is over. What advice would you give your friend for how to approach this difficult situation?

Both AIs gave thoughtful advice, but ChatGPT-4o’s response was more structured and provided a clear decision-making plan. At the same time, Gemini’s approach was more conversational and ended with the notion that there was no perfect solution.

Winner: Gemini for its relatable and honest approach.

4) Simplifying Quantum Entanglement

To test their ability to simplify complex concepts, I asked the AIs to explain quantum entanglement to an intelligent middle school student.

Prompt: Break down the concept of quantum entanglement in a way that an intelligent middle school student could understand. Use an analogy to help illustrate this complex phenomenon.

ChatGPT-4o used the analogy of magic coins that are always linked, while Gemini described a pair of magical gloves that change colors in sync. Both explanations were clear, but ChatGPT-4o’s analogy was more elegant and more accessible to grasp.

Winner: ChatGPT-4o for its clear and effective analogy.

5) Political Cartoons and International Relations

For this test, I described a political cartoon depicting two world leaders as aggressive wild animals and asked for an analysis of the message and implications.

Prompt: A political cartoon has been drawn depicting tensions between two nations. The cartoon shows the leaders of both nations as wild animals circling each other aggressively. Analyze the message and implications of this cartoon. Do you think this is a fair or productive way to depict this conflict? What animals could make the situation better or worse?

ChatGPT-4o immediately provided a comprehensive analysis, discussing the symbolism and potential impacts of such a depiction. Gemini initially misunderstood the task, attempting to create the cartoon instead.

Winner: ChatGPT-4o for its prompt and thorough response.

Final Verdict

On paper, ChatGPT-4o ahead with a score of 3-2 to Gemini Pro 1.5. However, both AIs have their strengths. ChatGPT-4o excels in detailed analysis and structured responses, while Gemini shines in creativity and conversational tone. The choice ultimately depends on your needs—whether you seek detailed reasoning or a more human-like interaction.

In this face-off, ChatGPT-4o edges out as the winner, but Gemini’s performance shows it’s a formidable competitor in the AI arena.