DeepSeek AI: Everything You Need to Know – Features, Working, and How It Compares to ChatGPT

DeepSeek AI has quickly gained attention in the artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, emerging as a strong competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT. With the launch of its latest models, DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1, this Chinese AI startup is making waves by offering high-performing AI solutions that are not only powerful but also cost-effective.

But what exactly is DeepSeek AI? How does it work? Is it better than ChatGPT? And most importantly, how can you use it? Let’s dive into all these questions and more in this comprehensive guide.

What is DeepSeek AI?

DeepSeek AI is an advanced artificial intelligence platform designed to deliver high-quality language model capabilities. 

Founded in May 2023 by Liang Wenfeng, the startup gained widespread recognition in 2025 with the release of its DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1 models.

How Does DeepSeek AI Work?

Unlike traditional AI models, DeepSeek AI leverages a Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture, which means it activates only a small portion of its neural network at a time. This results in highly efficient processing, reducing computational power while maintaining high-quality outputs.

Additionally, DeepSeek models employ a self-improvement mechanism through trial-and-error learning, mimicking human cognitive processes. This enables DeepSeek AI to continuously enhance its reasoning and problem-solving capabilities.

DeepSeek-V3 vs. DeepSeek-R1 – Key Differences

DeepSeek AI has two major models that serve different purposes:

• DeepSeek-V3 – A general-purpose AI chatbot that provides quick and accurate responses.

• DeepSeek-R1 – A more advanced reasoning model that excels in complex problem-solving, particularly in areas like mathematics, logical reasoning, and step-by-step problem analysis.

How to Use DeepSeek AI?

Accessing DeepSeek AI is straightforward and can be done through its official website or mobile app.

1. By Default, Users Start with DeepSeek-V3

• When you visit DeepSeek, it automatically loads the V3 model.

2. Switch to DeepSeek-R1 for Advanced Reasoning

• In the prompt box, you can select the "DeepSeek-R1" option to enable a more analytical AI experience.

3. DeepSeek’s Free and Paid Options

• Basic chatbot functionalities are free to use with no limitations.

• Advanced API access and backend integration require payment, but DeepSeek's pricing is significantly lower than OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

DeepSeek AI vs. ChatGPT – Which One is Better?

Both DeepSeek AI and ChatGPT are powerful AI tools, but they have some fundamental differences.

Feature	DeepSeek AI	ChatGPT
Core Model	DeepSeek-V3 & R1	GPT-4o & GPT-3.5
Reasoning Ability	Strong, especially with R1	Excellent, especially GPT-4o
Multimodal Capabilities (Images, Voice, etc.)	No	Yes
Custom GPTs	No	Yes (like DesignerGPT, Insta Guru)
API Pricing	$0.55 per million input tokens, $2.19 per million output tokens	$15 per million input tokens, $60 per million output tokens
Free Access	Yes, unlimited	Limited, full access requires ChatGPT Plus

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

✅ DeepSeek AI is an excellent option for free users who need high-quality AI assistance without spending money.

✅ ChatGPT offers additional features like image generation, multimodal capabilities, and custom GPTs, making it a more versatile tool.

✅ DeepSeek R1 is great for logical and mathematical reasoning, competing closely with ChatGPT’s most advanced models.

✅ DeepSeek’s API is significantly cheaper, making it an attractive choice for developers and businesses.

Should You Switch to DeepSeek AI?

If you are looking for a completely free AI chatbot with strong reasoning abilities, DeepSeek AI is a fantastic choice. However, if you need multimodal capabilities, voice interactions, or custom GPTs, ChatGPT remains the better option.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific needs—whether it’s affordability, reasoning capabilities, or additional features.

Final Thoughts

DeepSeek AI is proving to be a formidable competitor in the AI world, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative to ChatGPT. With its powerful language models, unique Mixture-of-Experts approach, and affordable API pricing, it is an excellent choice for both casual users and developers.

As AI technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how DeepSeek and other AI models compete and innovate in the coming years.

Would you try DeepSeek AI, or do you prefer ChatGPT? Let us know your thoughts!

1. What makes DeepSeek AI different from traditional AI models?

A) It uses a rule-based approach

B) It has unlimited computing power

C) It uses Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture

D) It relies only on human-generated data

✅ Answer: C) It uses Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture

Explanation: DeepSeek AI employs a Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture, meaning it activates only a portion of its neural network at a time. This makes it more efficient in processing queries while reducing computational costs.

2. Who is the founder of DeepSeek AI?

A) Sam Altman

B) Jensen Huang

C) Liang Wenfeng

D) Sundar Pichai

✅ Answer: C) Liang Wenfeng

Explanation: Liang Wenfeng founded DeepSeek AI in May 2023. The company gained global recognition in 2025 after launching its advanced language models, DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1.

3. What is the main difference between DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1?

A) DeepSeek-V3 is for general use, while DeepSeek-R1 specializes in reasoning tasks

B) DeepSeek-R1 generates images, while DeepSeek-V3 generates text

C) DeepSeek-R1 is only available for paid users

D) DeepSeek-V3 is only available as an API

✅ Answer: A) DeepSeek-V3 is for general use, while DeepSeek-R1 specializes in reasoning tasks

Explanation: DeepSeek-V3 is a general-purpose AI chatbot, while DeepSeek-R1 is optimized for complex reasoning and mathematical tasks. Users can switch between them depending on their needs.

4. How can users access DeepSeek AI?

A) Only through API access

B) Through its official website and mobile app

C) By purchasing a premium license

D) Only via invitation-based beta testing

✅ Answer: B) Through its official website and mobile app

Explanation: DeepSeek AI is easily accessible through its website and mobile app. Users can start with DeepSeek-V3 by default and switch to DeepSeek-R1 for more advanced reasoning capabilities.

5. What is one major advantage of DeepSeek AI over ChatGPT?

A) DeepSeek AI offers voice-based interaction

B) DeepSeek AI is free to use without limitations

C) DeepSeek AI supports custom GPTs

D) DeepSeek AI generates AI images

✅ Answer: B) DeepSeek AI is free to use without limitations

Explanation: Unlike ChatGPT, which requires a paid subscription for full access, DeepSeek AI offers free access without limitations. However, it lacks some advanced features like image generation and voice interaction.

6. Why is DeepSeek AI’s API considered cost-effective compared to OpenAI’s API?

A) It uses a larger dataset

B) It is backed by government funding

C) It has lower pricing per million tokens

D) It requires a one-time purchase

✅ Answer: C) It has lower pricing per million tokens

Explanation: DeepSeek AI’s API costs only $2.19 per million output tokens, whereas OpenAI’s API costs $60 per million output tokens. This makes DeepSeek a much more affordable choice for developers and businesses.

7. Which of the following is a limitation of DeepSeek AI compared to ChatGPT?

A) It cannot generate text-based responses

B) It does not support multimodal features like image and voice input

C) It is not available for public use

D) It requires high-end hardware to run

✅ Answer: B) It does not support multimodal features like image and voice input

Explanation: Unlike ChatGPT, which offers multimodal features (such as image generation and voice interaction), DeepSeek AI is currently limited to text-based responses.