Transparent Growth Measurement (NPS)

Comparing Google and SearchGPT for Video Searches

Contributors: Amol Ghemud
Published: October 16, 2025

Summary

Google leads in video searches by providing comprehensive results with video carousels, thumbnails, and direct links, making it perfect for detailed exploration. Users can easily access multimedia options and relevant video segments. SearchGPT, in contrast, focuses on quick, text-based summaries and recommendations, helping users find general insights before diving into specific videos. It’s suited for those who need brief overviews and a simplified search experience. The choice depends on user preferences: Google for visual, detailed exploration, or SearchGPT for a straightforward, text-focused approach.

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“Google leads in visual and detailed video exploration, while SearchGPT simplifies the search with concise, text-based recommendations.”

Video searches have become an integral part of how users consume content online, with a growing preference for dynamic, engaging media over traditional text. Whether it’s tutorials, product reviews, or entertainment, users now seek video content for richer, more interactive experiences. 

While Google has long been the dominant player in video search, offering extensive access to platforms like YouTube, newer tools like SearchGPT are emerging, offering an alternative approach with their conversational AI capabilities. In this blog, we’ll explore and compare how Google and SearchGPT handle video searches, assessing their unique features and user benefits.

Comparing Google and SearchGPT

What are Video Searches? 

Video searches involve users seeking multimedia content—such as tutorials, news clips, reviews, and entertainment—through search engines or dedicated video platforms. This form of search has grown in importance due to the rising demand for more dynamic, visually engaging ways to learn, stay informed, or enjoy content. For instance, instead of reading a lengthy article on how to repair a bike, users often prefer a step-by-step video demonstration.

Google dominates this space by directing users to a wide range of video platforms, primarily YouTube, which it owns, as well as other video-hosting sites. Search results typically include video thumbnails, previews, and timestamps for specific segments, allowing users to easily find relevant clips.

In contrast, SearchGPT approaches video searches differently. While it doesn’t link directly to video sources, it can provide summaries of video content or suggest where users might find the type of video they’re looking for. This makes SearchGPT more suitable for users seeking quick insights or an overview before searching for the actual video content.

Video Content-Specific Queries

Example Query: “Growth marketing tutorial YouTube”

Google Approach

When users search for a query like “Growth marketing tutorial YouTube”, Google showcases an integrated set of results with YouTube links and video carousels. These carousels often include video thumbnails, titles, channel names, and engagement metrics such as view counts and likes. Google may also feature timestamps or descriptions that highlight key segments of a video, making it easier to jump to specific parts relevant to the search query.

Strengths: 

This approach allows users to preview a variety of tutorials at a glance and evaluate which one suits their needs based on viewer ratings and popularity. It provides a rich visual experience with numerous choices to explore.

Weaknesses

The abundance of video options can be overwhelming, requiring users to sift through multiple videos to find the most relevant one. This can lead to decision fatigue, especially for complex topics.

SearchGPT Approach

SearchGPT responds differently by providing summarized recommendations based on known content. For a query like “Growth marketing tutorial”, SearchGPT might suggest well-regarded tutorials or offer a brief overview of key concepts found in popular videos. It might respond with: “Growth marketing is a data-driven approach that focuses on the entire customer journey, aiming to acquire, engage, and retain users effectively. To embark on growth marketing, consider the following steps:”

Strengths: 

The main advantage of SearchGPT’s approach is the immediate, conversational-style summary. Users receive guidance on where to find reliable tutorials without needing to navigate multiple pages or scan through video thumbnails.

Weaknesses: 

SearchGPT does not provide video previews or direct links, limiting its utility for users who want immediate access to visual content. This means users must perform an additional search to find and watch the videos.

Comparison Summary

The primary difference in user experience lies in how information is presented. Google’s approach offers a comprehensive, visually rich browsing experience where users can preview and assess tutorials before selecting. 

SearchGPT, however, excels at delivering a quick, text-based recommendation that helps users focus on a starting point without needing to evaluate multiple videos initially. This contrast highlights Google’s strength in multimedia exploration versus SearchGPT’s strength in simplicity and guidance.

Searching for Movies or Trailers

Example Query: “Latest movie trailers 2024”

Google Approach

When users search for “Latest movie trailers 2024”, Google typically presents results that include video carousels filled with YouTube links showcasing new trailers. Alongside these, it may display news articles about upcoming movie releases and trailers, providing a mix of visual and textual content. Users can click on the videos directly to watch or explore related articles to read about plot synopses, cast members, and movie release dates.

Strengths: 

Google’s video carousel offers instant access to trailers, supported by links to trusted sources such as YouTube or movie-focused websites. This approach ensures users can find and watch trailers with minimal effort while staying updated on release schedules.

Weaknesses: 

While comprehensive, the abundance of options can be overwhelming. Users may need to sift through multiple results to find the exact trailer they’re interested in or the highest-quality version.

SearchGPT Approach

SearchGPT handles a query like “Latest movie trailers 2024” by providing an informative summary that might include mentions of trending trailers, upcoming releases, and notable plot points. For instance, it could respond with: “As of November 7, 2024, several highly anticipated movie trailers have been released, showcasing a diverse range of genres and storytelling. Here are some notable upcoming films:”

Strengths: 

SearchGPT’s approach delivers a quick and straightforward overview that saves users time by highlighting relevant information about the trailers and their release timelines. This is useful for users who need a fast update without wading through multiple sources.

Weaknesses: 

Unlike Google, SearchGPT may not always provide embedded videos or direct links to watch the trailers, requiring users to take an additional step to search for the content on a separate platform. 

Comparison Summary

The user experience in accessing movie trailers differs notably between Google and SearchGPT. Google offers a direct, visually-rich pathway to trailers with embedded previews, making it easy to watch content immediately. 

SearchGPT, meanwhile, provides a summary that condenses key details, offering convenience in finding out what’s new. This highlights Google’s multimedia accessibility versus SearchGPT’s efficiency in delivering summarised, contextual information.

User Preferences and Use Cases

When choosing between Google and SearchGPT for video searches, user preferences and specific needs play a significant role in determining the better tool for the task. Here, we explore scenarios where each platform excels.

Google Use Cases

  • Visual Previews and Direct Access: 

Users who want to browse through a selection of video options with visual previews and quick access to play them are likely to prefer Google. For example, when searching “best movie trailers 2024”, Google’s video carousel allows users to click and watch trailers immediately, complete with thumbnails and engagement metrics. This makes it ideal for users looking for an interactive experience and real-time viewing.

  • Diverse Content Sources: 

For those who want to explore content from different creators or verify information across multiple sources, Google provides a comprehensive array of video links, news articles, and related content. This is beneficial for users conducting thorough research or comparing different perspectives on a topic.

SearchGPT Use Cases

  • Concise Summaries and Quick Insights: 

SearchGPT is preferred by users who need quick, digestible information about a video or topic without navigating through multiple links. For instance, if a user queries, “What are the most anticipated movie trailers for 2024?”, SearchGPT can provide a brief overview of trending titles, expected release dates, and where to watch them, all in a conversational format.

  • Guidance on What to Watch: 

When users are unsure where to start or are looking for recommendations, SearchGPT’s ability to summarise and suggest popular or relevant content based on known data provides a helpful, personalised touch. This suits users who prefer a guided approach without visual overload.

Comparison Summary

The choice between Google and SearchGPT for video searches hinges on the type of user experience desired. Google is the go-to option for visual, multimedia-rich searches where users can instantly watch videos and explore related content. On the other hand, SearchGPT serves those who seek streamlined, conversational information and recommendations, allowing them to quickly understand what’s popular or relevant before diving into a deeper search.

Key Differences in User Experience

When it comes to video searches, the user experience on Google and SearchGPT varies significantly in terms of content accessibility, depth versus convenience, and visual appeal.

1. Content Accessibility

Google: Google offers direct access to video content through its video carousels and embedded YouTube links, allowing users to start watching immediately. For a query like “top tech reviews 2024”, users can quickly click on video thumbnails, watch trailers, or open links to additional details. This makes it easy to access content in just a click, ideal for users ready to dive into the video.

SearchGPT: In contrast, SearchGPT provides recommendations or summaries rather than direct video links. A user searching “top tech reviews 2024” on SearchGPT would receive a summary of popular tech review channels or video titles and possibly a brief description of what’s covered in each but without clickable video access. This offers guidance without immediate viewing options.

2. Depth vs. Convenience

Google for Depth: Google is the preferred choice when users want a range of options, previews, and perspectives. Its ability to aggregate videos from different sources and include engagement metrics provides users with a well-rounded view, supporting in-depth exploration of content.

SearchGPT for Convenience: SearchGPT shines when users need quick information or a high-level summary without browsing through multiple sources. For instance, if a user is interested in finding out which tech reviews are trending, SearchGPT’s short, conversational summaries can deliver that insight instantly, ideal for time-constrained users.

3. Visual Appeal

Google’s Visual Elements: Google’s video carousels, complete with thumbnails, titles, and engagement stats, enhance the visual appeal and help users easily decide which video to watch. By displaying previews, Google offers a multimedia experience that allows users to assess content visually before clicking.

Visual Interface Comparison

Google and SearchGPT offer distinct visual interfaces for video searches that cater to different user needs and preferences. Understanding how these interfaces influence the user’s decision-making process highlights the strengths of each platform.

1. Google’s Video Carousel Interface

Google’s video search results are marked by a rich, interactive visual experience. The video carousel typically appears prominently, featuring clickable thumbnails, video titles, and often engagement metrics like view counts or ratings. 

Users can easily preview what each video offers at a glance, helping them make quick decisions about which content to watch. For example, a search for “latest movie trailers 2024” might yield a carousel filled with trailers from YouTube and other video platforms, enabling users to start watching with a single click.

Impact on Decision-Making: This visual layout is highly effective for users who rely on visual cues to decide which content best suits their needs. The presence of thumbnails and ratings allows for easy comparison, enabling users to pick a video that appears most relevant or popular quickly. This format is especially helpful for those who prefer exploring multiple options before making a choice.

2. SearchGPT’s Conversational Suggestions 

SearchGPT, on the other hand, uses a text-based, conversational interface to present video content recommendations. Instead of clickable thumbnails, users receive summaries or lists of suggested videos with brief descriptions. 

For example, a user might ask, “What are the most anticipated movie trailers for 2024?” and receive a response like, “Check out trailers for ‘The Great Adventure’ and ‘Epic Return,’ which are expected to be released in the summer. You can find them on YouTube.”

Impact on Decision-Making: This approach provides streamlined, easy-to-digest information, making it ideal for users looking for quick insights or guidance without visual distractions. However, the lack of visual previews may require users to perform an extra step to locate the videos on another platform, which could slow down the decision-making process for those who prefer instant access to multimedia content.

Analysis Summary:

The visual interface difference between Google’s video carousel and SearchGPT’s conversational suggestions greatly impacts user decision-making. Google’s rich, image-based format supports users who benefit from visual exploration and immediate video access, making comparing and choosing content on the spot easier. 

In contrast, SearchGPT’s simplified, text-based recommendations cater to users seeking quick, no-frills information but can require more effort to access the actual videos. This comparison underscores Google’s advantage in offering a visually immersive experience, while SearchGPT excels at providing efficient, informative guidance for initial decision-making.

Final Verdict: SearchGPT vs. Google for Video Searches

When it comes to video searches, both Google and SearchGPT offer unique strengths that cater to different user needs. Google provides an immersive, visually rich experience, complete with video carousels and direct access to a wide range of content. This makes it ideal for users who prefer in-depth exploration and visual cues to guide their decisions. On the other hand, SearchGPT delivers quick, conversational summaries and recommendations, perfect for those seeking fast, simplified guidance without needing to sift through extensive results.

Ultimately, the best tool depends on what the user values most—visual previews and instant access with Google or streamlined, text-based suggestions with SearchGPT. Both platforms complement each other and can effectively serve users based on their search priorities.

Mastering the Future of Search and Marketing 

At upGrowth, we are committed to helping businesses and individuals stay ahead in digital marketing and search technology. By offering insights and strategies tailored to emerging tools like SearchGPT and trusted platforms like Google, we empower our audience to make informed decisions that enhance their online presence. Dive into our blog series to explore how to optimise your strategies for various search types and harness the best of both AI-driven and traditional search engines.

Video Search Showdown: Google vs. AI Search

A comparison of how traditional search (Google) and conversational AI search (SearchGPT) handle video queries.

Google excels in visual display and comprehensive results, while SearchGPT provides direct video summaries and conversational refinement.
VISUAL BREADTH VS. CONVERSATIONAL SUMMARY
  • 1

    Source and Indexing

    The foundation of where each engine pulls its video results from.

    Google: Leverages the massive indexing power of YouTube (its own platform), plus videos indexed from across the entire web. Results are heavily focused on YouTube.

    SearchGPT: Relies on real-time web crawling and data integration to find video sources, primarily focusing on links from external sites for direct citation.

  • 2

    User Experience & Visuals

    How video results are presented to the user.

    Google: Offers a visually rich experience with embedded thumbnails, video carousels, and the option to filter results directly by video.

    SearchGPT: Primarily provides a text-based summary of the video content within the conversational response, followed by source links. Less emphasis on embedded visual elements.

  • 3

    Relevance & Query Type

    Performance based on the intent of the search.

    Google: Excels at Navigational (finding a specific channel) and Transactional (finding a product review) queries due to vast indexing.

    SearchGPT: Excels at Informational and Content Analysis queries, providing a summary or comparison of video content without requiring the user to watch the video first.

  • 4

    Context & Follow-Up

    The ability to refine the search based on previous results.

    Google: Treats each search as independent, requiring a new, specific query to refine the video search.

    SearchGPT: Maintains conversational context, allowing users to ask for a “shorter video” or “a video from a different source” in a natural follow-up.

FAQs

1. Which platform provides better access to movie trailers and video previews: Google or SearchGPT? 

Google offers direct access to movie trailers with video previews and thumbnails, making it ideal for immediate viewing, whereas SearchGPT provides only text-based recommendations.

2. How do Google’s video search results compare to SearchGPT’s recommendations for video content? 

Google displays video carousels and links for instant access, while SearchGPT provides concise summaries and suggestions without direct video links.

3. Is SearchGPT effective for finding the latest video content without browsing through multiple sources? 

Yes, SearchGPT is effective for quick insights and recommendations, but users must search separately for video playback, unlike Google’s direct video integration.

4. What are the strengths of using Google for video searches compared to SearchGPT? 

Google excels in providing a visually rich, comprehensive view of video options with immediate access, making it perfect for browsing and comparing content.

5. Can SearchGPT recommend video content as effectively as Google displays it? 

SearchGPT can provide useful recommendations and summaries, but may lack the embedded video previews and direct links that make Google’s display more effective for immediate access.

6. Which tool is more suitable for users who prefer quick video insights: Google or SearchGPT? 

SearchGPT is better for users looking for fast, conversational recommendations, while Google is preferred for those wanting visual previews and direct video access.

Glossary: Key Terms Explained

  1. Video Search – A type of search focused on finding multimedia content such as tutorials, reviews, or entertainment videos through search engines or video platforms.
  2. Video Carousel – A visual feature in Google’s search results displaying multiple video thumbnails and links, allowing users to preview and access videos easily.
  3. Thumbnails – Small preview images representing video content, helping users identify relevant videos before clicking to watch.
  4. Conversational AI – Artificial intelligence technology, like SearchGPT, designed to communicate with users in natural language and provide context-based responses.
  5. Text-Based Summary – A concise written overview of video content provided by AI tools like SearchGPT instead of full video previews.
  6. Engagement Metrics – Data such as views, likes, and comments that indicate how popular or well-received a video is among audiences.
  7. User Experience (UX) – The overall satisfaction and ease of use a person feels when interacting with a digital product like Google Search or SearchGPT.
  8. Content Accessibility – The ease with which users can find and interact with videos or information, including previews, summaries, and direct links.
  9. Multimedia Integration – The combination of video, images, and text within search results to enhance the richness of user experience.
  10. Search Intent – The purpose behind a user’s search query—whether they’re looking to watch, learn, compare, or explore video content.

For Curious Minds

Video search has become essential because users increasingly seek richer, more interactive experiences for learning and entertainment, preferring visual demonstrations over static articles. To meet this demand, Google has evolved its search engine to prioritize and integrate multimedia content, especially from YouTube, ensuring you receive the most effective format for your query. This adaptation is most visible when you search for instructional or review-based content. Instead of just a list of links, Google provides a more dynamic results page designed for visual evaluation. Key features include:
  • Integrated Carousels: Showcasing multiple video thumbnails, titles, and channel names directly on the results page.
  • Rich Previews: Displaying engagement metrics and key moments or timestamps, allowing you to assess relevance before clicking.
  • Platform Prioritization: Favoring content from its own video platform, YouTube, which offers a vast library of user-generated and professional content.
This approach transforms search into an exploratory process, allowing you to compare options visually. Discover how this visual-first strategy stacks up against newer AI tools in our complete comparison.

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About the Author

amol
Optimizer in Chief

Amol has helped catalyse business growth with his strategic & data-driven methodologies. With a decade of experience in the field of marketing, he has donned multiple hats, from channel optimization, data analytics and creative brand positioning to growth engineering and sales.

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