Introduction
Gemini 3 and GPT 5.2 are two of the most powerful AI models for coding in 2025. While both excel in software engineering, their strengths diverge in key areas. This article compares their performance on the SWE-bench and other benchmarks, with practical takeaways for developers.
Benchmark Performance
SWE-bench Verified
- Gemini 3 Pro: Scores 76.2% (Google official).
- GPT 5.2: Achieves 80% (OpenAI official).
SWE-bench Pro (Advanced)
- GPT 5.2: 55.6%.
- Gemini 3 Pro: 43.3%.
Terminal-Bench 2.0 (Tool Use)
- Gemini 3 Pro: 54.2%.
- GPT 5.2: ~47.6%.
Context Window
- Gemini 3 Pro: 1M tokens, ideal for massive codebases and documents.
- GPT 5.2: Focuses on robust context use, less prone to losing track in long sessions.
Coding and Development Workflows
Real-World Coding
- GPT 5.2: Excels in professional knowledge work (70.9% on GDPval) and abstract reasoning.
- Gemini 3 Pro: Shines in speed, algorithmic solutions, and agentic coding (WebDev Arena: 1487 Elo).
Algorithm and Competitive Programming
- Gemini 3 Pro: Superior in generating efficient and novel algorithms, and competitive programming scenarios[web:61].
- GPT 5.2: Stronger in professional, real-world code, especially with complex architectures[web:58].
UI/3D Development
- GPT 5.2: Outstanding for complex UI, 3D, and unconventional interfaces.
- Gemini 3 Pro: Great for rapid prototyping and exploratory coding.
Strengths and Weaknesses
| Feature | Gemini 3 Pro | GPT 5.2 |
|---|---|---|
| SWE-bench Verified | 76.2% | 80% |
| SWE-bench Pro | 43.3% | 55.6% |
| Terminal-Bench 2.0 | 54.2% | ~47.6% |
| Context Window | 1M tokens | Robust, less drift[web:58] |
| Coding Workflow | Fast, agentic, efficient | Professional, real-world, deep |
| UI/3D Coding | Rapid prototyping | Complex, 3D, advanced |
| Algorithm | Best for efficiency | Strong, but less than Gemini |
Practical Takeaways
-
Choose Gemini 3 Pro if:
- You need speed, agentic coding, and rapid prototyping.
- You work with very large codebases or documents.
- You focus on competitive programming and efficient algorithms.
-
Choose GPT 5.2 if:
- You prioritize robustness and real-world professional code.
- You tackle complex UI, 3D, or architectural challenges.
- You want a reliable tool for sustained coding sessions.
Conclusion
Gemini 3 Pro and GPT 5.2 are both leaders, but they serve different needs. Gemini 3 Pro is the best for speed and agentic workflows, while GPT 5.2 leads in professional coding and complex architectures. For optimal results, consider combining both models based on your project requirements
Top comments (0)