AI Models Explained: Claude vs GPT-4o vs Gemini in Plain English
In 2025, AI models are trained differently, priced differently, and have wildly different strengths. This guide cuts through the marketing to explain what each model actually does well.
The Major AI Models Explained
Claude 3.5 Sonnet (Anthropic)
Best at: Long-form writing, nuanced analysis, following complex instructions, coding
Context: 200K tokens — you can paste an entire novel
Price: $3/1M input tokens via API; $20/month via Claude.ai
Notable: Anthropic prioritizes AI safety; Claude refuses fewer tasks than competitors while still being responsible
GPT-4o (OpenAI)
Best at: Versatility, multimodal tasks (images, voice, code), data analysis
Context: 128K tokens
Price: $5/1M input tokens via API; $20/month via ChatGPT Plus
Notable: Most versatile model; the swiss army knife of AI
Gemini 1.5 Pro (Google)
Best at: Google Workspace integration, very long context tasks, real-time search
Context: 1M tokens — the largest available
Price: $7/1M input tokens via API; $20/month via Gemini Advanced
Notable: Best for users deep in Google ecosystem
How to Choose
- Need best writing quality? Claude 3.5 Sonnet
- Need images, voice, data analysis? GPT-4o
- Need longest context window? Gemini 1.5 Pro
- Building apps? Test all three with your specific use case
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