In modeling fluidized bed gasification experiments, equilibrium and CFD models are valuable options. The existence of multi-dimensional effects inside the reactor vessel due to the kinetics of the process and the fluid dynamics phenomena could result in deviation from the zero-dimensional assumption. Complex models integrating kinetics and hydrodynamics are being developed by using a computer fluid dynamics (CFD) approach. The objective of this investigation is to assess and compare the adequacy of zero-dimensional and CFD approaches in modeling fluidized bed gasification regarding a semi-industrial scale (numerical results are validated under experimental runs). Results show that the zero-dimensional model based on the approach of dual stage equilibrium performs reasonably well in adequately predicting the product gas composition at different operating conditions and for different feedstocks, although with quantitative discrepancy. Furthermore, the discrepancy depends on the oxygen content of the oxidation agent and on the steam-to biomass ratio decreasing when these parameters increased. CFD models provide deeper information being able to estimate the syngas composition or other operating parameter at any point of space and time. Despite of some quantitative discrepancy, the zero-dimensional modeling approach is deemed satisfactory from the viewpoint of the determining design conditions simulation.