I tested both on the same codebase for 3 weeks. Here's what actually works and where each one shines.
Context
We've shipped 40K+ lines of production code using both Claude Code (via Codex) and ChatGPT. This isn't speculation—it's what we learned building real SaaS products on tight timelines.
The Benchmarks
Speed to First Deploy
- Claude Code: ~4 min per feature (SDK, tests, types)
- ChatGPT Code: ~6 min per feature
- Winner: Claude by 33%
Code Quality (Test Coverage)
- Claude Code: 80–90% test coverage, types-first
- ChatGPT Code: 60–75% coverage
- Winner: Claude for safety
Refactoring & Existing Code
- Claude Code: understands context, respects patterns
- ChatGPT Code: sometimes rewrites more than needed
- Winner: Claude for maintenance
Token Cost
- Claude Code: ~$0.05 per feature (Anthropic max subscription)
- ChatGPT Code: ~$0.03 per feature
- Winner: ChatGPT on raw cost (but we pay subscriptions anyway)
Where Each Wins
Use Claude Code For:
- SDK development (expects types, tests, validation)
- Complex refactoring (understands patterns)
- Security-sensitive work (crypto, auth, payments)
- Short, focused PRs (<500 lines)
Use ChatGPT Code For:
- Exploratory/spike work (figuring out HOW)
- Rapid prototyping (MVP quality is fine)
- Learning new libraries (explain while coding)
- Long features with back-and-forth
Decision Framework
- Production + security-critical → Claude Code
- <200 lines of clear logic → Claude Code
- SDK/library/public API → Claude Code
- Spike or POC → ChatGPT (faster exploration)
- Burned out on typing requirements → ChatGPT (chat is faster)
Verdict
Use Claude Code for anything that matters. Use ChatGPT when you're exploring.
We've shipped millions in ARR with this split. Both work. Claude is more reliable. ChatGPT is more flexible.
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