ChatGPT vs DeepSeek for Math

ChatGPT edges out DeepSeek for general math with superior GPQA Diamond scores (92.8% vs 82.4%), but DeepSeek's R1 model surprisingly outperforms on pure competition math (AIME: 93.1%), making it the better choice for serious mathematicians on a budget. For most users needing math help, ChatGPT's higher overall reasoning capability plus integrated tools justifies the cost, though DeepSeek is compelling if you're working on specialized math problems and want to save money.

Head-to-Head for Math

Advanced Math Reasoning (GPQA Diamond)

ChatGPT

ChatGPT

Excellent performance at 92.8%

DeepSeek

Strong at 82.4%, slightly lower

Competition Math (AIME 2025)

DeepSeek

ChatGPT

No benchmark data available

DeepSeek

Outstanding 93.1% accuracy

Extended Reasoning Capabilities

Tie

ChatGPT

Extended thinking mode available

DeepSeek

Dedicated R1 reasoning model

Computational Verification

ChatGPT

ChatGPT

Full code execution supported

DeepSeek

No code execution capability

Cost for Math Work

DeepSeek

ChatGPT

Higher API and subscription costs

DeepSeek

Much more affordable pricing

See Them Answer a Math Question

We asked both models the same math-focused prompt.

Solve the integral ∫(x²·eˣ)dx step by step, then verify your answer by differentiating the result.

GPT-5.4

Solve the integral ∫(x²·eˣ)dx step by step, then verify your answer by differentiating the result.

We want to compute

x2exdx\int x^2 e^x \, dx

using integration by parts.


Step 1: First integration by parts

Recall:

udv=uvvdu\int u\,dv = uv - \int v\,du

Choose:

u=x2du=2xdxu = x^2 \quad \Rightarrow \quad du = 2x\,dx

dv=exdxv=exdv = e^x\,dx \quad \Rightarrow \quad v = e^x

Apply the formula:

x2exdx=x2ex2xexdx\int x^2 e^x\,dx = x^2 e^x - \int 2x e^x\,dx

So now we need to compute:

2xexdx=2xexdx\int 2x e^x\,dx = 2\int x e^x\,dx

Thus,

x2exdx=x2ex2xexdx\int x^2 e^x\,dx = x^2 e^x - 2\int x e^x\,dx


Step 2: Second integration by parts

Now evaluate:

xexdx\int x e^x\,dx

Choose:

u=xdu=dxu = x \quad \Rightarrow \quad du = dx

dv=exdxv=exdv = e^x\,dx \quad \Rightarrow \quad v = e^x

Apply integration by parts:

xexdx=xexexdx\int x e^x\,dx = x e^x - \int e^x\,dx

xexdx=xexex\int x e^x\,dx = x e^x - e^x

So,

xexdx=ex(x1)\int x e^x\,dx = e^x(x-1)


Step 3: Substitute back

From Step 1:

x2exdx=x2ex2xexdx\int x^2 e^x\,dx = x^2 e^x - 2\int x e^x\,dx

Substitute the result:

x2exdx=x2ex2(xexex)\int x^2 e^x\,dx = x^2 e^x - 2(x e^x - e^x)

Distribute the 2-2:

x2exdx=x2ex2xex+2ex\int x^2 e^x\,dx = x^2 e^x - 2x e^x + 2e^x

Factor out exe^x:

x2exdx=ex(x22x+2)+C\int x^2 e^x\,dx = e^x(x^2 - 2x + 2) + C


Final Answer

x2exdx=ex(x22x+2)+C\boxed{\int x^2 e^x\,dx = e^x(x^2 - 2x + 2) + C}


Step 4: Verify by differentiating

Differentiate:

F(x)=ex(x22x+2)F(x) = e^x(x^2 - 2x + 2)

Use the product rule:

F(x)=ex(x22x+2)+ex(2x2)F'(x) = e^x(x^2 - 2x + 2) + e^x(2x - 2)

Factor out exe^x:

F(x)=ex[(x22x+2)+(2x2)]F'(x) = e^x\big[(x^2 - 2x + 2) + (2x - 2)\big]

Simplify inside:

(x22x+2)+(2x2)=x2(x^2 - 2x + 2) + (2x - 2) = x^2

So:

F(x)=exx2F'(x) = e^x x^2

F(x)=x2exF'(x) = x^2 e^x

which matches the integrand.


So the result is verified:

x2exdx=ex(x22x+2)+C\boxed{\int x^2 e^x\,dx = e^x(x^2 - 2x + 2) + C}

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Detailed Breakdown

When it comes to mathematics, DeepSeek holds a surprisingly strong edge over ChatGPT — particularly for users who need rigorous symbolic reasoning, proof work, or competitive-level problem solving.

DeepSeek's benchmark numbers tell a compelling story. On AIME 2025 — one of the most respected tests of advanced mathematical reasoning — DeepSeek scores an impressive 93.1%. ChatGPT does not publish a comparable AIME score, but its GPQA Diamond score of 92.8% versus DeepSeek's 82.4% suggests ChatGPT has the broader scientific knowledge base. For pure math depth, though, DeepSeek's dedicated reasoning model (DeepSeek R1) is purpose-built for the kind of step-by-step chain-of-thought work that hard math demands. Think olympiad-style geometry proofs, number theory derivations, or multi-step calculus problems where showing your work matters as much as getting the right answer.

ChatGPT is no slouch at math — GPT-5.4 handles algebra, calculus, statistics, and linear algebra competently, and its code execution capability is a genuine advantage. Need to verify a result numerically? ChatGPT can run Python inline, plot a function, or check a symbolic result with a quick scipy or sympy call. That tool-augmented workflow (reflected in its 52.1% Humanity's Last Exam with-tools score) gives it a practical edge for applied math in data science, engineering, or finance contexts.

DeepSeek's strength is in pure reasoning without scaffolding. For graduate-level proofs, abstract algebra, or real analysis, DeepSeek R1's extended thinking mode produces detailed, structured derivations that rival what you'd get from a knowledgeable tutor. It's also free at the generous tier and extremely cheap via API — making it attractive for students or researchers running many queries.

Where ChatGPT pulls ahead is accessibility and workflow integration. If you're doing applied math — building a statistical model, debugging a numerical simulation, or combining math with chart generation — ChatGPT's file uploads, code interpreter, and image output create a more complete environment. For a high school student or working professional, the guided, interactive experience is also easier to navigate.

Recommendation: For competitive math, advanced proof work, or budget-conscious users focused purely on mathematical reasoning, DeepSeek (especially with R1) is the better choice. For applied math, data analysis, or workflows that mix math with code execution and visualization, ChatGPT's integrated toolset wins. If you only care about getting hard math problems solved step-by-step for free, start with DeepSeek.

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