ChatGPT vs Perplexity
Compare ChatGPT and Perplexity from an SEO perspective. Learn which AI platform deserves more optimization focus and how to rank on both.
OpenAI's conversational AI with 200M+ weekly users. Primary use is conversational assistance, with Browse feature for current information.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ChatGPT | Perplexity |
|---|---|---|
| User Base | 200M+ weekly | Growing (millions) |
| Web Retrieval | Optional (Browse) | Always |
| Citation Style | Contextual mentions | Numbered references |
| Click-through | Indirect | Direct source links |
| Crawler | GPTBot | PerplexityBot |
| Optimization Speed | Slower (training) | Immediate (retrieval) |
| Use Case | General assistant | Search/research |
ChatGPT
Strengths
- Largest user base by far
- High brand awareness
- Enterprise market penetration
- Diverse use cases
Limitations
- Not always web-connected
- Less explicit citation than Perplexity
- Training data has cutoff date
Perplexity
Strengths
- Always current information
- Clear source attribution
- Direct traffic to cited sources
- Growing user base
Limitations
- Smaller user base than ChatGPT
- Less brand awareness
- More research-focused audience
Our Verdict
Both matter, but differently. ChatGPT has reach; Perplexity has attribution. Optimize for both, but prioritize based on your goals.
Choose ChatGPT if:
Brand awareness is your goal, you target a general audience, or you want maximum reach.
Choose Perplexity if:
Direct traffic matters, you want explicit citations, or your audience is research-oriented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform sends more traffic?
Perplexity explicitly cites sources with clickable links, making it easier to track. ChatGPT mentions brands but less often links directly. Perplexity typically drives more trackable referral traffic.
Should I optimize for ChatGPT or Perplexity?
Both. Many optimizations (structure, schema, AI crawler access) benefit both platforms. Perplexity shows immediate results; ChatGPT impact takes longer to measure.