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When DeepSeek R1 was released back in January 2025, it took the world by storm. With affordable, open-source tech that rivalled competitor OpenAI, downloads skyrocketed - whilst U.S. tech giants found their stock plummeting.
Naturally, the platform shook up the tech industry worldwide. And it shows no signs of slowing. But does it meet the hype?
If you’re curious and want to check it out for yourself, we’ve got your back with this complete guide for content creators.
Key takeaways
- DeepSeek R1 was trained for just $6 million compared to OpenAI's $100+ million cost.
- DeepSeek offers two models: V3 for general tasks and R1 for complex reasoning.
- The platform uses a Mixture-of-Experts model that activates only relevant specialist networks.
- DeepSeek can generate content, translate text, analyze data, and provide coding assistance.
- The app faces security concerns and bans in Italy and Australian government systems.
What is DeepSeek?
In the same vein as ChatGPT, DeepSeek is an AI chatbot tool. Founded by Zhejiang University graduate, Liang Wenfeng, the platform can be used for similar purposes as ChatGPT. That includes research, writing, math, and coding.
There are two main DeepSeek models that you can use - V3 and R1. But what’s the difference? Let’s take a look.
DeepSeek V3
When you open up the DeepSeek app, you will use the DeepSeek V3 model by default. It uses a “Mixture-of-Experts” model, which optimizes resources by using just the relevant aspects of the model on tasks.
How does that work? Well, the model is split down into several specialist networks, which each tackle a specific task. These networks are known as “experts”.
Think about it this way: if you had a problem with your computer, you’d go right to an IT technician. But if you were in pain yourself, would you go to the same person? Chances are, the answer would be “no”. That issue would be better suited to a doctor or another medical expert. The Mixture-of-Experts model works like this, with different “experts” managing different issues.
DeepSeek R1
DeepSeek R1 is a reasoning AI model. This model splits problems into steps and works through them logically. Essentially, it’s mimicking the human reasoning process.
What’s interesting about DeepSeek R1 is that while the platform competes with U.S. models, its production was also significantly cheaper. According to DeepSeek researchers, training the model cost just $6 million. Compare that to the $100+ million reported by Sam Altman, OpenAI’s CEO.
How to use DeepSeek
Here’s what you need to do to get started with DeepSeek. First, you’ll either need to download the app to your mobile or access the browser version. Then you can create an account.
- Messaging - Naturally, there’s a text input section to ask DeepSeek about anything you need help with.
- DeepThink (R1) - Tap on this button to enable R1.
- Search - Tap on this to enable the “search” feature, which incorporates a web search.
- Search images/documents: Tap the “+” button to add a photo or document to the chat.
DeepSeek pros and cons
So, what’s the broader consensus around DeepSeek? Let’s take a look.
DeepSeek Pros
- Affordable pricing: Perhaps the standout benefit of DeepSeek is its price-tag. It’s free for general use.
- Useful features: most reviewers feel the platform is at least on-par with its competitors.
"You can even use DeepSeek AI for free using OpenRouter - or if you like to keep things simple, just purchase credits from the platform directly." - Reddit User
DeepSeek Cons
- Model limitations: Whilst some reviewers feel the platform holds its own, others feel it doesn't meet the standards of Sonnet and 4o.
- Busy servers: With DeepSeek rising in popularity, the platform’s servers are especially busy.
Security concerns: is DeepSeek safe to use?
AI tools have raised a variety of security concerns, and DeepSeek is no exception. These mainly focus on data protection and hacking risks.
DeepSeek has arguably been more closely scrutinized due to its Chinese origin. Concerns have been raised about possible links between China’s technology and its government. Some critics feel user data could be compromised and used for political or intelligence purposes by the CCP.
DeepSeek FAQs
Is DeepSeek good with coding?
Yes, you can use DeepSeek to work on simple and complex coding problems. But the version you should use depends on the complexity of the task. V3 will work well for simple questions, while R1 is better for complex logic.
Can you use DeepSeek for content creation?
Yes, DeepSeek works much like ChatGPT and other AI writing tools for content creation. You can use it to brainstorm ideas, sketch out plans, and write out drafts.
Rob Truslove
Previously business and ecommerce writer @ Cliqo. 15+ years of experience in digital marketing and content writing. Based in Manchester, UK.
