Original test · 2026-10-31
We ran 10 texts through ZeroGPT, QuillBot and Sapling. Here are the real scores.
Four AI drafts, the same four rewritten with the BypassZero checklist, and two famous human texts. We pasted each into three free AI detectors on the same day and recorded every score.
Updated 2026-10-31
Results
The scores
Red = flagged as AI (60%+), amber = uncertain, green = human. QuillBot's free tier allows 4 scans per day, so it was run on 4 of the 10 texts.
| Text | Type | ZeroGPT (% AI) | QuillBot | Sapling (% AI) | BypassZero checker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | AI draft Essay: remote work | 100% | AI 100% / Mixed 0% / Human 0% | 100.0% | 70% |
| R1 | Rewritten with checklist Essay: remote work | 0% | AI 0% / Mixed 100% / Human 0% | 99.9% | 1% |
| A2 | AI draft Product description: backpack | 100% | not tested (daily limit) | 100.0% | 65% |
| R2 | Rewritten with checklist Product description: backpack | 37.1% | not tested (daily limit) | 93.7% | 9% |
| A3 | AI draft Cover letter | 100% | not tested (daily limit) | 100.0% | 61% |
| R3 | Rewritten with checklist Cover letter | 23.9% | not tested (daily limit) | 99.8% | 6% |
| A4 | AI draft Blog intro: sleep | 100% | not tested (daily limit) | 100.0% | 58% |
| R4 | Rewritten with checklist Blog intro: sleep | 62.7% | AI 0% / Mixed 100% / Human 0% | 99.2% | 1% |
| H1 | Human (public domain) Thoreau, Walden (1854) | 0% | not tested (daily limit) | 2.0% | 18% |
| H2 | Human (public domain) Twain, Huckleberry Finn (1884) | 31.6% | AI 0% / Mixed 0% / Human 100% | 91.2% | 14% |
Findings
What we learned
1. Unedited AI drafts are caught everywhere.
All four AI drafts scored 100% AI on ZeroGPT, 100% on Sapling, and the one we could run on QuillBot was 100% AI-generated. The BypassZero checker rated them 58–70% AI-likeness (high risk).
2. Fixing the checklist items moves ZeroGPT and QuillBot, but not Sapling.
After rewriting with the BypassZero checklist (varied sentence length, no stock phrases, concrete details, personal voice), ZeroGPT dropped from 100% to 0–62.7% and QuillBot moved from '100% AI' to '100% Mixed'. Sapling still scored the rewrites 93.7–99.9% AI. Important: these rewrites were produced by an AI following the checklist, so Sapling was right that they weren't human-written.
3. Detectors disagree badly on real human writing.
The opening of Mark Twain's Huckleberry Finn (1884) scored 31.6% AI on ZeroGPT, with the verdict 'Your Text is AI/GPT Generated', and 91.2% AI on Sapling, while QuillBot rated it 100% human. Thoreau's Walden (1854) scored 0% on ZeroGPT and 2.0% on Sapling.
4. A detector score is a signal, not proof.
If a 140-year-old novel can be labelled AI-generated, a score alone should never decide an accusation. If you need to prove authorship, keep drafts and version history.
Method
How we ran the test
- Date: 2026-10-31. All detectors used on their free public web versions, without accounts.
- Detectors: ZeroGPT (zerogpt.com), QuillBot AI Detector (model v8.3.1), Sapling AI Detector. GPTZero was excluded because its scan now requires an account.
- AI drafts (A1–A4): typical unedited AI output on four topics: an essay, a product description, a cover letter and a blog intro.
- Rewrites (R1–R4): the same topics rewritten by applying the BypassZero checklist: vary sentence length, remove stock AI phrases, add concrete details (numbers, names, places) and a personal voice. The rewrites were AI-assisted; no humanizer tool was used.
- Human controls (H1–H2): public-domain openings of Thoreau's Walden (1854) and Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1884), copied from Project Gutenberg.
- Each text was pasted unchanged; we recorded the headline score each tool showed. Our own checker's AI-likeness score is listed for comparison.
Limitations
Ten texts is a small sample, detectors change their models frequently, and percentages from different tools aren't directly comparable. Treat this as a snapshot, not a ranking of detector accuracy. We'll repeat the test with more texts and GPTZero.
Related: ZeroGPT guide · QuillBot detector guide · Sapling guide · humanizer results · how AI detection works
Full texts
All 10 test texts
A1 · AI draft · Essay: remote work · 182 words
In today's fast-paced world, remote work has emerged as a transformative force that is reshaping the modern workplace. Furthermore, it is important to note that this shift offers numerous benefits for both employees and employers. For employees, remote work provides greater flexibility, improved work-life balance, and the elimination of time-consuming commutes. Moreover, organizations can leverage remote work to access a wider talent pool, reduce overhead costs, and enhance overall productivity. However, remote work also presents several challenges that must be carefully navigated. Communication barriers, feelings of isolation, and difficulties in maintaining company culture are common concerns that organizations must address. Additionally, the blurring of boundaries between professional and personal life can lead to burnout if not managed effectively. To fully harness the potential of remote work, companies must invest in robust digital tools, foster a culture of trust, and implement clear policies that support employee well-being. In conclusion, remote work is not merely a temporary trend but a fundamental shift in how we approach work. By embracing this change thoughtfully, organizations can create a more flexible, inclusive, and productive future for all.
R1 · Rewritten with checklist · Essay: remote work · 184 words
I've worked from my kitchen table for three years now, and the honest answer is that remote work is great until it isn't. The good part is obvious. No 50-minute train ride, no pretending to look busy at 4:55, and I can take my daughter to school on Tuesdays. My old employer also saved real money: they gave up two floors of their Zurich office in 2022. The bad part creeps up on you. By the second winter I'd go whole days without saying a word out loud except to the dog. Nobody on my team noticed, because on Slack I looked fine. That's the problem with remote culture. Problems don't show up until someone quits. So what actually helps? Not another app. What worked for us was boring: a fixed end time, a camera-on call every Monday that was only allowed to be about non-work stuff, and a manager who asked how we were and waited for the answer. Remote work isn't a trend that will fade. But it only works if someone treats the loneliness as a real cost, not a footnote.
A2 · AI draft · Product description: backpack · 163 words
Elevate your everyday adventures with our innovative TrailPro Backpack, the perfect companion for modern explorers. Crafted from premium, water-resistant materials, this versatile backpack seamlessly combines style, durability, and functionality. Whether you're commuting to the office, exploring a new city, or embarking on a weekend getaway, the TrailPro is designed to meet your every need. Its thoughtfully designed interior features multiple compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve, ensuring your essentials stay organized and protected. Furthermore, the ergonomic shoulder straps and breathable back panel provide exceptional comfort, even during extended wear. The sleek, minimalist design makes it a stylish choice for any occasion, while the robust zippers and reinforced stitching guarantee long-lasting performance. Additionally, the convenient side pockets offer easy access to water bottles and small items. With its perfect blend of form and function, the TrailPro Backpack is more than just a bag; it is a testament to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Unlock a new level of convenience and style with TrailPro today.
R2 · Rewritten with checklist · Product description: backpack · 141 words
The TrailPro is a 24-litre backpack for people who carry a laptop to work and don't want a second bag for the weekend. The shell is 600D recycled polyester with a PU coating, so it shrugs off a rain shower but it isn't a dry bag. Don't take it kayaking. Inside there's a padded sleeve that fits a 16-inch MacBook Pro, plus two zip pockets for chargers and keys. The back panel is mesh over foam. On a 30-degree day you'll still sweat, just less. It weighs 980 g empty. YKK zips, bar-tacked stress points, and a two-year warranty if the stitching fails. One customer put it best in a review: "It looks like a work bag but my sandwich doesn't get crushed." Side pockets hold a one-litre bottle, which surprisingly few laptop bags manage. Available in black, olive and sand.
A3 · AI draft · Cover letter · 178 words
Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my keen interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at your esteemed company. With a strong background in digital marketing and a passion for creating impactful campaigns, I am confident that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for this role. In my previous position, I successfully managed social media accounts, developed engaging content, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive brand awareness. Furthermore, I possess excellent communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. I am particularly drawn to your company's commitment to innovation and excellence, which aligns perfectly with my own professional values. I am eager to contribute my creativity and dedication to your dynamic team and help achieve your marketing objectives. Moreover, I am a quick learner who is always eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities for growth. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills can contribute to the continued success of your organization. Sincerely, Alex Morgan
R3 · Rewritten with checklist · Cover letter · 142 words
Dear Ms. Keller, I've been reading Fernweh's newsletter since your piece on overtourism in Hallstatt, and it's the only travel brand email I actually open. That's why I'm applying for the Marketing Coordinator job. At Velo Basel I ran Instagram and the newsletter on my own for 18 months. The newsletter went from 2,100 to 9,400 subscribers, mostly because I stopped sending discount codes and started sending short route guides people could print. Our open rate sat around 46%. I also learned what I'm bad at: I used to over-plan campaigns, and twice we missed a good weather weekend because the content wasn't approved in time. Now I keep a backlog of ready posts. I'd like to do for Fernweh what worked at Velo, which is useful content first, offers second. I'm in Zurich and can start in January. Best, Alex Morgan
A4 · AI draft · Blog intro: sleep · 175 words
Sleep is one of the most crucial aspects of our overall health and well-being, yet it is often overlooked in today's busy society. Getting enough quality sleep plays a vital role in maintaining physical health, emotional balance, and cognitive function. Unfortunately, millions of people struggle to achieve restful sleep due to stress, poor habits, and the pervasive use of electronic devices. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the science behind sleep, explore the most common factors that disrupt it, and provide practical, evidence-based strategies to help you improve your sleep quality. Whether you're a busy professional, a student, or a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, these tips are designed to help you unlock the restorative power of a good night's rest. Additionally, we will examine the role of diet, exercise, and environment in promoting healthy sleep patterns. By understanding the key elements that contribute to better sleep, you can take meaningful steps toward a healthier, more energized, and more productive life. Let's dive in and discover how small changes can make a big difference.
R4 · Rewritten with checklist · Blog intro: sleep · 150 words
For most of last year I slept about five and a half hours a night and told myself it was fine. It wasn't. My running times got worse, I snapped at people in meetings, and I once put the milk in the cupboard and the cereal in the fridge. So I spent three months testing the usual sleep advice on myself, with a cheap Fitbit and a notebook. Some of it worked. Most of it didn't, at least not for me. Cutting coffee after 2 pm made the biggest difference: about 40 extra minutes of sleep on average. A cooler bedroom helped a bit. The "no screens before bed" rule did almost nothing, which surprised me, until I noticed I was replacing my phone with a stressful book about the economy. Below is what I tried, what the research actually says about each tip, and the three changes I've kept.
H1 · Human (public domain) · Thoreau, Walden (1854) · 202 words
When I wrote the following pages, or rather the bulk of them, I lived alone, in the woods, a mile from any neighbor, in a house which I had built myself, on the shore of Walden Pond, in Concord, Massachusetts, and earned my living by the labor of my hands only. I lived there two years and two months. At present I am a sojourner in civilized life again. I should not obtrude my affairs so much on the notice of my readers if very particular inquiries had not been made by my townsmen concerning my mode of life, which some would call impertinent, though they do not appear to me at all impertinent, but, considering the circumstances, very natural and pertinent. Some have asked what I got to eat; if I did not feel lonesome; if I was not afraid; and the like. Others have been curious to learn what portion of my income I devoted to charitable purposes; and some, who have large families, how many poor children I maintained. I will therefore ask those of my readers who feel no particular interest in me to pardon me if I undertake to answer some of these questions in this book.
H2 · Human (public domain) · Twain, Huckleberry Finn (1884) · 187 words
You don’t know about me without you have read a book by the name of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer; but that ain’t no matter. That book was made by Mr. Mark Twain, and he told the truth, mainly. There was things which he stretched, but mainly he told the truth. That is nothing. I never seen anybody but lied one time or another, without it was Aunt Polly, or the widow, or maybe Mary. Aunt Polly—Tom’s Aunt Polly, she is—and Mary, and the Widow Douglas is all told about in that book, which is mostly a true book, with some stretchers, as I said before. Now the way that the book winds up is this: Tom and me found the money that the robbers hid in the cave, and it made us rich. We got six thousand dollars apiece—all gold. It was an awful sight of money when it was piled up. Well, Judge Thatcher he took it and put it out at interest, and it fetched us a dollar a day apiece all the year round—more than a body could tell what to do with.
Independent heuristic estimate of the signals detectors use (predictability, burstiness, stock AI phrasing, repetitive structure). It is not GPTZero, ZeroGPT or Turnitin, and real scores can differ.
FAQ
About this test
Which AI detector was most accurate in your test?
On the AI drafts, all detectors agreed (100% AI). On the human control texts, QuillBot was the only one that rated the Twain excerpt human; ZeroGPT and Sapling flagged it. Sapling was strictest on AI-rewritten text.
Did the rewrites pass AI detection?
Partly. ZeroGPT scored them 0–62.7% and QuillBot moved them to 'Mixed', but Sapling still flagged them at 93.7–99.9%. The rewrites were AI-produced, so a fully human rewrite would be needed to pass every detector.
Why wasn't GPTZero included?
GPTZero's free scan now runs in its web app, which requires an account. We didn't create accounts for this test. We plan to add GPTZero in the next round.
Can I reproduce the test?
Yes. All 10 texts and every score are in the CSV download. Detectors update their models often, so results may change over time.
Use it the right way
Better writing beats gaming a score.
AI detectors are probabilistic and get things wrong, which is why it makes sense to check your text first. But the goal is clear, specific writing that is genuinely yours, not hiding AI use where it's banned.
- Check your school, employer or client's AI policy and disclose AI help when it's required.
- Never paraphrase someone else's work without citing it.
- Never invent sources, quotes or data.
- Keep drafts and version history. They're your best proof of authorship.