When You Should Use ChatGPT or Google

A few months after its launch, ChatGPT already had over 100 million users testing out its interface. Since its launch at the end of 2022, the traffic has calmed down a little, with analytics and trending searches emerging.

ChatGPT vs. Google — in terms of features, uses, and what the future holds — is it a David vs. Goliath situation? Or are these just more options for users in a forever-growing technology world?

The online space is forever changing and growing, and it looks like traditional search engines, like Google, need to squish over.

In this article, we’ll look at the difference between ChatGPT and Google, suggest which one should be used, and answer your key questions about ChatGPT vs. Google.

If you want to drive revenue results by staying ahead of emerging trends and technology, sign up for WebFX emails. We have several options available for your interest, including Revenue Weekly, which sends you digital marketing strategies and exclusive tips to your inbox.

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an AI language model developed by OpenAI, based on the Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) architecture.

It is designed to understand and generate human-like text based on the input it receives. The system of ChatGPT is trained on vast amounts of data that can help users with:

• Answering questions
• Generating content
• Help with brainstorming
• Writing code
• Giving easy, digestible explanations for complex topics

Is ChatGPT the end of Google?

No. ChatGPT does not function like a search engine. It has limited capabilities with web scanning, and often, when it is forced to, the data can be outdated, as it only works according to its last update. In fact, ChatGPT suggests you don’t use it as a search engine.

However, users might start using ChatGPT to get questions answered quickly or for ideas. Google isn’t coming to an end, but inquiries will not all be funneled into its search capabilities. Depending on what they are looking for, users can choose to get answers from ChatGPT, look for information on the web, or do a little of both with an answer engine.

Traditional vs. answer search engines

Answer engines are AI-powered search engines, like Perplexity.ai and SearchGPT. SearchGPT is another product that is being created by Open AI. These AI-powered technologies do a similar task as a traditional search engine. They are known as answer search engines.

But while traditional answer engines, like Google, use algorithms and keywords to categorize the web. Answer engines use AI technology to scan. Traditional search gives users links to explore, while answer engines provide direct answers. It’s a different experience.

Key differences for ChatGPT vs. Google

Key Differences Between Google and ChatGPT

• Purpose and functionality
• Data source
• Response style

Let’s look at what the difference is between Google and ChatGPT are:

Purpose and functionality

ChatGPT has a conversational focus to assist with natural language-based interactions, while Google assists users in finding information on the Internet. Google retrieves and ranks the web pages — ChatGPT engages in discussion. It does not browse the web in real time.

Data source

Google continuously indexes the web and retrieves the most recent and relevant content. It has access to real-time content, with a vast collection of websites, databases, and online resources.

ChatGPT is based on a large body of preexisting text, including books, websites, and articles. Its knowledge is static and capped at a specific point.

Response style

ChatGPT’s response style is conversational and designed to mimic human dialogue. Its focus is on detailed explanations and summaries. It does not provide external links or sources unless they are embedded within its response.

Google delivers web pages, links, brief summaries known as Snippets, and other media formats to users. It directs the user to external content sources for further analysis and exploration.

ChatGPT vs. Google: When to use each

The differences between Google and ChatGPT are fundamental. Depending on the user’s needs, there are times when ChatGPT is more suitable.

Here’s a quick look at when to use each one:

When to use ChatGPT

If you are looking for conversational interactions with detailed explanations, then this is where ChatGPT shines. 

Here are some other occasions when using ChatGPT is beneficial:

• Creative tasks: Generating ideas for fiction, brainstorming business ideas, and using ChatGPT canvas to help you write content outlines are all situations where you can take advantage of ChatGPT.
• Problem-solving or tutoring: ChatGPT can provide step-by-step instructions for solving math problems or guidance on coding, project management, and study topics.
• General knowledge and summaries: You can summarize books, articles, and topics as long as you don’t need specific sources.

When to use Google

Overall, if you are looking for real-time information, then Google is where you should look. Here are some scenarios where it’s best to use Google:

• Searching for specific information: When you need to look up exact facts or check the latest news and reviews, Google is still your go-to platform.
• Finding websites and resources: You can access specific web pages, product listings, or services with Google. They also give you website links for research papers.
• Looking for multimedia: You can search for images, videos, maps, and other media-based content through Google. For example, if you are looking for a video tutorial or images of a landmark.

When to use both Google and ChatGPT

ChatGPT and Google work wonderfully together as a team. For example, you can use Google to do your research into studies and recent publications, then use ChatGPT to summarize what you found.

AI technology is a great tool for enhancing existing technology and your objectives. With regard to Google, it is the same concept. Tools like ChatGPT can be used in collaboration with traditional search engines and Google results to provide you with the support you need in your task.

Get ahead of the curve

Drive your revenue with WebFX and partner with us today. We have turbocharged our AI digital marketing services to give you access to AI solutions for your content, SEO, PPC, and email marketing, all in one full agency. Our team is full of AI specialists who can help you understand AI marketing solutions and how they relate to your specific business.

Get a proposal or call us at 888-601-5359 to talk to a strategist about what services we can offer you to reach your goals.

Our digital marketing campaigns impact the metrics that improve your bottom line.

See Our Approach

WebFX has driven the following results for clients:

$10 billion

in client revenue

24 million

leads for our clients

7.14 million

client phone calls