ChatGPT vs Google: Which Should You Use?

For decades, whenever we've had a question, the first instinct has been to 'Google it'. Google is genuinely excellent at finding information on the internet. Then ChatGPT came along. It can answer questions too, often in a more conversational and detailed way.

That doesn't mean one is replacing the other. They're just good at different things, and knowing which to reach for can save you a lot of time.

When to Use Google Search

Google is a search engine. Its job is to find and rank websites, articles, images, and videos from across the internet that match your query. Think of it as a research librarian who knows where to find the book you need, but won't read it to you.

Stick with Google when you need:

• Today's news, weather, and sports scores. Google is constantly scanning the web, so it's the right place for anything time-sensitive.
• Quick facts: capital cities, opening hours, phone numbers. Google often puts the answer right at the top of the page.
• A specific website. If you want the BBC News homepage or the NHS site, typing it into Google is the fastest way there.
• Local searches like "plumbers near me" or "Italian restaurant in Bristol". Google uses your location to show nearby options and maps.
• Shopping and price comparisons. Google shows you different products, prices from various shops, and links to customer reviews.

When to Use ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a conversational AI. It doesn't search the internet in real-time (the free version, anyway). Instead, it uses the information it was trained on to write a response for you. Think of it as a knowledgeable friend who can explain things, help you write, and suggest ideas.

Turn to ChatGPT when you need:

• Explanations of complicated topics in plain English. Ask it to "explain how a car engine works simply" or "summarise the plot of Hamlet".
• Help with writing. ChatGPT can draft emails, birthday card messages, CVs, or letters. Our guide to using AI for writing letters has some ready-to-use examples.
• Ideas. Ask for birthday party suggestions, meal plan ideas, or names for a new puppy. It won't run out of suggestions.
• A back-and-forth conversation. You can ask follow-up questions and it will remember what you said earlier in the chat.

Not sure what to ask it? Our ChatGPT prompts for beginners has a long list of things worth trying.

Using Both Together

The best approach is to use both tools, depending on what you need. You might use Google to find the latest reviews for a new camera, then paste that text into ChatGPT and ask: "Can you summarise the pros and cons from this review for me?"

One finds information. The other helps you understand and use it.

FAQ

Helpful Links

• Google Search
• Official ChatGPT website
• Is ChatGPT free? What you get without paying
• Common AI mistakes to avoid