SO WHICH IS BETTER?
Dr Zhang noted that it was “difficult to make a definitive statement” about which bot was best, adding that each displayed its own strengths in different areas, “such as language focus, training data and hardware optimization”.
Her insight underscores how Chinese AI models are not simply replicating Western paradigms, but rather evolving in cost-effective innovation methods – and delivering localised and improved results.
In our tests, each bot showcased their own unique strengths, which definitely made direct comparisons challenging.
DeepSeek’s sci-fi movie plot demonstrated its creative flair that made for a more engaging and imaginative narrative as compared to Qwen2.5 and ChatGPT’s efforts.
Unsurprisingly, the more established ChatGPT, unburdened by Chinese censorship restrictions, provides accurate and factual responses to questions about Chinese current events, which gives it an added advantage.
Experts also weighed in on their thoughts after using DeepSeek and other Chinese AI apps.
“DeepSeek is at a disadvantage when it comes to censorship limitations,” noted Isaac Stone Fish, founder and CEO of the research firm Strategy Risks.
“When given a choice, Chinese users want the non-censored version – just like anyone else, so I feel like that’s a piece missing from it.”
Independent Beijing-based consultant Andy Chen Xinran said censorship would not be a dealbreaker when it comes to AI bots, especially for Chinese users.
“Ninety per cent of people using the tool are not trying to get a deeper understanding about Xi Jinping or politically sensitive topics. They’re using it for other productive means,” Chen said.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/china-deepseek-alibaba-qwen-chatgpt-test-4919001
