LogFAQs > #953740391

Biggest way I can describe it is chemistry and focused character work. There are no cutaway gags and the episodes are far more plot focused and you are also rewarded for paying attention as the show sprinkles in tons of long-term gags throughout the seasons. It starts off a bit rough but I'd say by season 3 it's in full gear and consistently pretty fucking good. Unlike Family Guy, while there is animosity between the main cast what differentiates it is the fact it's dysfunction and not hatred, it's a more solid family unit even if everyone is driven by selfish desires and needs. It also has better side characters and it's edgyness is usually played for laughs than shock as it can get pretty gory. Stan being a CIA agent also puts him in far more interesting scenarios than Peter could ever get into.

I like both by the way I just consider American Dad to be a far superior show and that's including golden age Family Guy.