Are there differences in DeepResearch's output quality when it uses the full time budget (e.g., 30 minutes) versus a shorter duration?

Yes, DeepResearch’s output quality generally improves when it uses the full allocated time budget (e.g., 30 minutes) compared to shorter durations. This is because the system prioritizes thoroughness over speed, and additional time allows it to process more data, validate results, and refine its analysis. For example, when tasked with generating a technical report, the full 30-minute window enables DeepResearch to aggregate a wider range of sources, cross-check conflicting data, and apply iterative validation steps. In contrast, shorter timeframes force the system to prioritize speed, which can lead to trade-offs in depth or accuracy.

The difference becomes apparent in scenarios requiring complex problem-solving. Suppose a developer requests an analysis of performance bottlenecks in a distributed system. With 30 minutes, DeepResearch might systematically profile multiple components, simulate load scenarios, and compare optimization strategies. If limited to 10 minutes, it might focus on surface-level metrics (e.g., CPU usage) and generic suggestions like “optimize database queries,” skipping deeper investigation into network latency or caching layers. Similarly, for code-related tasks, the full time budget allows the system to explore edge cases, test alternative implementations, and validate solutions against multiple constraints—steps often abbreviated or omitted under tighter deadlines.

However, the impact of time depends on the task’s complexity. For straightforward queries—like retrieving documentation snippets or basic syntax examples—shorter durations may suffice, as the system can quickly access preprocessed data. But for nuanced tasks (e.g., debugging a race condition or designing a scalable architecture), the extra time directly correlates with output quality. Developers can optimize this by setting time budgets aligned with the problem’s scope: use shorter runs for well-defined tasks and reserve full durations for open-ended or critical analyses. This balance ensures efficiency without sacrificing depth where it matters most.