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And here we are, in the middle of the technological drama: ChatGPT raising prices? Is Deep Research the future? Well, while we mortals continue adjusting our budgets so that artificial intelligence does not leave us bankrupt, those free alternatives appear that come to save the day (and our technological self-esteem). Let’s explore these options together, which, spoiler alert, are nothing to sneeze at.
In this post, we break down the video’s extensive analysis of the new OpenAI features and how free tools raise their hand saying, “Hey, I know how to play too, right?” So if you don’t have the pocket to try Deep Research or the latest reasoning model, keep your eyes open because here comes the good stuff.
ChatGPT updates: the earthquake in AI
ChatGPT hasn’t stopped this year. Suddenly in less than a week it launched two new features: a more advanced reasoning model, dubbed O3 Mini, and a new functionality known as Deep Research, which is responsible for carrying out internal investigations (yes, like the Sherlock Holmes of bots, but without a coat or cap). Obviously, these new features are designed to give you digital superpowers, but let’s not fool ourselves: not all of us can afford those tech luxuries.
The free alternatives that you (yes) should try
Pay attention here because the juicy stuff begins. The video presents three alternatives that directly compete with the functionalities of O3 Mini and Deep Research. Take note, experiment and be grateful that there are still free solutions in this world.
1. Qwen Chat: When the queen gets her act together
This tool uses a reasoning model similar to O3 Mini and claims to have 32 billion parameters (I don’t know exactly how many there are either, but it sounds impressive). Basically, it’s like a digital brain that processes your requests and generates responses in the blink of an eye.
2. DeepSeek: Straight to the point of reasoning
DeepSeek is also a strong contender. This model is capable of offering quality reasoning and has proven to be competitive against paid tools. It’s not perfect, but hey, for zero euros… we’re not going to complain too much, right?
3. Microsoft Copilot: The interesting infiltrator
Microsoft enters the game with its famous Copilot and its Think Deeper feature. The curious thing here is that this model could be using technology based on OpenAI. Coincidence? I don’t believe it. Additionally, Microsoft is known for testing OpenAI models in its own tools first. So if you use Copilot, you’re already playing with something close to the O3 Mini.
Comparing results: may the best win
Why talk about promises if we can talk about facts. The video takes crazy (but necessary) paths to compare the performance of these tools with two specific reasoning exercises: a mastermind game and decoding encrypted messages. Spoiler: not everyone was successful.
Challenge 1: The mastermind
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O3 Mini from ChatGPT: Solved the puzzle brilliantly.
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Qwen: Solved! Although there were slight differences in the final reasoning.
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DeepSeek: Mission accomplished, but without too much extra complexity.
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Copilot: Everything is good here too, but nothing particularly revolutionary.
In this challenge, everyone did a decent job, making it clear that even free alternatives can measure up in some cases.
Challenge 2: Decoding messages as spies
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ChatGPT (O3): Calculators on and head to the limit; It took almost 3 minutes, but he figured it out!
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Qwen: He tried, he sweated, but he couldn’t completely solve it.
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DeepSeek: He answered something, but it was short; left the mystery half done.
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Copilot: He tried, but his limitations are still evident in these extreme tasks.
What about deep reports?
When we enter the arena of long and detailed investigations, we burn another interesting cartridge. This is where a little gem appears: Perplexity, a tool that promises to overcome standard restrictions by offering increased internet access.
A typical task was analyzing biographies (in this case, that of DeepSeek’s COO). The results varied:
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Perplexity released consistent information with good online access.
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Deep Research remains more detailed, but Perplexity remained worthy for quick “summaries”.
And what is the verdict? 🏆
After all the analysis, we can come to a conclusion: yes, Deep Research and O3 Mini lead technologically, but if your tasks do not require exhaustive mastery (or if your budget is tighter than your favorite jeans), the free alternatives will more or less do the trick.
So, what to do? Explore! Don’t marry only one option. Discover which tool best suits your needs and use them strategically. And hey, if you find THE ideal option, let me know, I love trying new things.
Finally, remember: AI is here to make our lives easier (not more expensive), so take advantage of what’s already out there. Subscribe if you want more reviews and useful tools. That learning together is always more fun.