Which AI Model Should You Really Use? Here’s How I Decide
By: Jetter Garcia | Date: September 11, 2025
Have you ever wondered which AI model is actually the best for what you’re trying to do? Maybe you need one for writing blogs, another for summarizing research, or something reliable for coding. The truth is, not every LLM (Large Language Model) is built for the same purpose. Some are great at creativity, while others are better at structured or technical tasks.
I’ve tested different models over time, and one thing I’ve realized is that the “best” choice keeps changing. New releases come out, old ones improve, and the landscape shifts fast. That’s why instead of sticking to just one model, I use a couple of resources that let me see which LLMs are leading at any given time.
Why Matching the LLM to the Task Matters
Think of LLMs like tools in a toolbox. You wouldn’t use a hammer to screw in a bolt, right? Same thing here:
- Writing and blogging - needs creativity, coherence, and flexible tone.
- Coding - requires accuracy and logical reasoning.
- Research demands reliability and clear summarization of complex content.
Choosing the wrong model can mean wasted time, frustration, or poor-quality output.
My Go-To Resources for Tracking the Best Models
Here are the three resources I always check to know which models are currently leading:
- Vellum’s LLM Leaderboard – shows rankings of LLMs across different benchmarks.
- LM Arena – lets you compare models head-to-head and see which one performs better for specific tasks.
- llm-stats.com – A statistics-driven site that aggregates data on LLM performance, adoption, and usage trends, giving you a broader view of how models stack up over time.
These sites are updated regularly, so I don’t have to guess which model is worth testing. I can see the data right away.
Final Tip
Don’t lock yourself into one model forever. AI is moving so fast that the “best” tool today may not be the best next month. Instead:
- Keep checking the leaderboards.
- Test different models for your workflow.
- Stick with the one that saves you the most time and gives the best output.
Conclusion
Finding the right LLM is just like finding the right tool for a job. The good news is you don’t have to figure it out blindly. Resources online already exist, making it easy to see which models are currently performing well.
I’ve found these super helpful, and I think you will too. Try them out, experiment with a few models, and see which one fits your needs best.