Gemini Pro Surpasses ChatGPT Plus: A $20 AI Showdown

Since I subscribed to ChatGPT Plus, I had the opportunity to test Gemini Pro thanks to my Google One subscription. Both services cost $20 per month but offer distinct features. Google has introduced a new AI Pro plan at $19.99 per month, which includes access to Gemini 3.1 Pro, integration of Gemini into my favorite Workspace applications, as well as in Chrome and Search, NotebookLM, and 5 TB of storage on Drive. I wanted to compare these two AIs to determine which one best meets my needs.

Comparison between ChatGPT Plus and Gemini Pro

I have been using ChatGPT Plus and Gemini Pro from my web browser and their respective mobile apps. I examined the latest trends in AI usage to guide the tests I conducted. It is clear that we are moving away from using AI solely for "work" and starting to use it more for "life." Thus, this comparison is not exhaustive or scientific, but rather a glimpse into the real-world performance of both AIs.

Writing and Editing

In the realm of writing, Gemini Pro stands out with a more natural style and specific suggestions. For instance, where ChatGPT remained formal, with phrases like "I hope you have an amazing time celebrating," Gemini offered more authentic and engaging formulations, such as "I’m really bummed" and "I hope you have the best time." It was also more specific, suggesting inviting someone for a drink or coffee and wishing them a happy birthday, which ChatGPT did not do. Gemini Pro outperformed ChatGPT Plus in this comparison, excelling in writing and ecosystem integration.

Image Generation

In terms of image generation, both AIs proved competent, but ChatGPT better preserved my likeness. It was almost identical to my original photo, just with a tighter crop and a different background. However, Gemini offered a more aesthetically pleasing composition and design. My husband compared the two results and said, "You didn’t need to ask me. One looks like you, and the other is a totally different person."

Video Generation

For video, Sora from ChatGPT took the lead with a more lively and interactive animation. Sora produced a video where my daughter's drawing literally came to life, spoke, and moved, accompanied by music. Veo from Gemini, while faster, was less impressive, simply showing the drawing on a canvas with some sound, but no actual speech or movement. My four-year-old daughter also chose this option when I asked her to pick a winner.

Voice Interaction

Both AIs, with their advanced voice modes, responded well to technical culinary queries, offering precise and natural solutions. During my first attempt with Gemini, I activated text mode instead of Live. After switching to Live, it understood me and explained how to fix my sauce with cold water or a fresh egg yolk. ChatGPT Advanced Voice also understood well and provided a similar response. Both were accurate and natural, so this is a tie.

Sensitive Topics (Health)

On health issues, both AIs advised consulting a professional, showing similar caution in their recommendations. ChatGPT mentioned that my symptoms could indicate spinal nerve compression, advising to see a doctor if symptoms persist. Gemini said the same but added that it’s best to get checked out quickly.

Shopping and Curation

For shopping, Gemini suggested a "witchy" look with a black skirt and a peasant top, while leaving $97 in the budget. ChatGPT offered more ethereal style advice, with clothing suggestions and tips to avoid a costume-like appearance. Both AIs provided numerous options and style advice.

In-Depth Research with Multi-Step Reasoning

Finally, in in-depth research, both ChatGPT Plus and Gemini Pro demonstrated their ability to handle complex questions, although Gemini offers slightly broader capabilities. Both can manage multi-step inquiries and provide in-depth research tools that analyze information and produce structured, documented reports. ChatGPT won in the agentic AI category, but Gemini dominated in writing and ecosystem integration.