AI chatbots are everywhere, and Perplexity AI is among the frontrunners. It claims to be a smart search engine designed to deliver accurate and concise answers by pulling information directly from web sources. But is it really as reliable as it claims, and does it live up to the hype?

We’ve been using Perplexity AI since its launch and have firsthand experience with its features and performance. In this article, we’ll share our review, covering its key features, benefits, pricing, and alternatives.

Understanding Perplexity AI

Founded by Andy Konwinski and others, Perplexity AI is an AI-powered search engine that helps users get accurate answers by pulling information from multiple sources. When you input a query, it searches the web for relevant data, compiles it, and delivers a concise and accurate answer. This sets it apart from AI chatbots like ChatGPT, which mostly rely on their knowledge base, which is not infallible.

Even more, it includes citations to credit its sources, which is a big plus on the ethical side. The tool also makes finding answers effortless, especially for research, with its follow-up question prompts. It also supports multiple large language models (LLMs) like Claude 3.5, GPT-4, and Sonar, giving you the flexibility to pick the one that best fits your needs.

Beyond its image and video search features, Perplexity AI enables users to generate images using tools like Playground AI, DALL-E, and SDXL. These features make Perplexity AI stand out from the competition.

How Does Perplexity AI Work?

Perplexity AI combines ChatGPT and Google search features to answer questions. It uses natural language processing to understand prompts and provide concise, cited answers from web data.

For example, when asked, “When was Donald Trump elected for his second term as President?”, the AI searched authoritative sources like Al Jazeera and provided precise search results with cited sources. It even lets us review all the sources used and remove any we don’t want included.

Like other AI chatbots, it offers a “rewrite” function to regenerate answers and a menu to copy answers (this copies an answer with citations). As we mentioned earlier, its image and video search features allow us to view visuals related to our search.

Key Features of Perplexity AI

Here are the major features Perplexity AI offers:

1. User Interface: Perplexity AI has a clean, straightforward user interface without the clutter of unnecessary jargon—although some might find the larger fonts used for questions in threads a bit distracting. Despite this, all other menus and functions are well-organized across web and mobile platforms, making it easy to navigate and use.
2. Web Search: Perplexity AI combines web search with its models to provide real-time, accurate answers with citations. This ensures users get reliable information quickly, improving the search experience.
3. Perplexity Pro Search: Previously called Copilot, Perplexity Pro Search delivers advanced search capabilities. It accesses a broader range of sources, providing detailed and well-rounded answers to queries.
4. Image Generation: Perplexity AI supports image generation through models such as Playground AI and DALL-E. Users can create visuals directly, making the search experience more engaging.
5. Question Suggestions: Another notable feature is its query auto-suggest, which works similarly to Google’s search suggestions. This helps users quickly refine their queries and find the most relevant information with minimal effort.
6. Focus Mode: Instead of comparing answers across the internet, users can use specific modes—academic, Social, Math, Video, and Writing—to tailor responses to a particular thread. This feature is especially useful for focusing the tool’s output on specific topics, making it more relevant to user needs.
7. Space: Perplexity AI offers a “Space” feature for creating custom AI conversational setups. With a premium subscription, users can select an AI model, set response instructions, and add sources for answers. The feature also allows collaboration by inviting others to join these Spaces.

Benefits of Using Perplexity AI

Perplexity AI is one of the best applications and offers more benefits than other AI chatbots. Here are some of its main advantages.

• Enhanced Accuracy: Perplexity AI combines advanced AI models with real-time web data to deliver accurate answers quickly. This ensures that users receive reliable information without the risk of outdated content, boosting productivity by providing precise and timely responses.
• Citations for Credibility: One of Perplexity AI’s key features is its citation capability. It provides direct access to the sources used to generate answers, offers transparency, and allows users to verify the information quickly. This enhances the data’s credibility, supports ethical content creation, and prevents copyright infringement.
• Natural Language Understanding: The tool’s natural language processing capabilities make interactions more intuitive and human-like. This improves the user experience by allowing users to ask questions naturally without complex rephrasing.
• Versatility: Perplexity AI supports multiple AI models like Claude 3.5, GPT-4, and Sonar, giving users the flexibility to choose the model that best suits their needs. Whether it’s casual browsing, in-depth research, or more complex queries, this adaptability makes it a versatile tool for a range of applications.
• Comprehensive Search Features. Beyond text-based answers, Perplexity AI also excels in image and video searches. Its integration with tools like Playground AI and DALL-E allows users to generate and view related visuals, enhancing the overall search experience. This makes it a one-stop solution for both informational and creative needs.

Use Cases for Perplexity AI

1. Content Writing and Summarization: The Perplexity AI chatbot is ideal for content creators looking to streamline their writing processes. With this tool, you can easily research topics, get the proper answers to your queries, and write alongside the sources of those answers. Its collaborative features also allow multiple team members to collaborate on drafts, articles, and blog posts.
2. Image Generation: Perplexity AI’s image generation capabilities enable creative professionals to produce high-quality visuals quickly. Using models like Playground AI and DALL-E, users can create engaging images for marketing, social media, and e-commerce.
3. Academic Research: Perplexity AI helps researchers and students gather and summarize information. It provides quick access to research papers and articles, offering concise summaries with citations. This makes literature reviews and staying updated on topics easier.
4. Code Generation: Perplexity AI enhances software development workflows by assisting with code generation and debugging. It can generate code snippets, offer instant solutions to programming problems, and suggest improvements when prompted. In some cases, it also guides how to properly use the code it generates.

Pricing and Plans

Perplexity AI offers the following pricing plans:

• Standard Plan: Free with unlimited Quick searches and 3 Pro Searches daily, you can only use the standard Perplexity AI model.
• Professional Plan: The Professional Plan costs $20/month. It includes unlimited quick searches, 300+ Pro searches daily, access to GPT-4o, Claude-3, and Sonar Large (LLama 3.1), unlimited file uploads for analysis, and $5/month in API credits. It also supports answer visualization with tools like Playground AI, DALL-E, and SDXL.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Started with Perplexity AI

1. Sign Up for an Account: Visit the Perplexity AI website and create a free account. You can also use the AI tool without signing up, but your chats won’t be saved, and you’ll have limited access to its features.
2. Prompt the AI: On the home page, enter the query you need answered into the “Ask anything…” box. Ensure you include keywords specific to your intent.
3. Customize Your Search: Click the Focus menu in the search box to select the sources you want the search to examine. You can attach files to your prompt and toggle the Pro button to use the Pro Search feature.
4. Start Your Search: Press the Enter key to start your search, and wait for the AI tool to provide your answers. Below each answer, you can share, rewrite, copy, or click the three-dot icon and select “View Sources” to see all the sources used for your answer.
5. Access Thread History: You can access all your threads on the sidebar under the Library menu.

Also, you can add the Perplexity AI Chrome extension to your browser, making it your browser’s default search engine.

Drawbacks of Perplexity AI

While Perplexity AI has several benefits, here are a few drawbacks we noticed:

• Dependence on Sources: Perplexity AI relies on web sources for answers, which can sometimes lead to variations in the quality and relevance of the information provided. If the tool draws from less reputable sources, the accuracy of its answers might be compromised.
• Subscription Required for Full Access: Some features, like choosing preferred AI models or accessing advanced tools like Playground AI, are only available in the Professional Plan. This limitation can be a hurdle for users who lack the budget for a subscription.
• Off-Topic Answers: Despite its accuracy, Perplexity AI sometimes provides off-topic answers if not adequately prompted. Users may receive responses that aren’t directly related to their questions.

Other Alternatives to Perplexity AI

1. ChatGPT by OpenAI

ChatGPT is a widely popular generative AI chatbot similar to Perplexity AI. It enables users to engage in human-like conversations and perform various tasks with an AI. It is powered by GPT models (GPT-4o for complex and intelligent tasks and GPT-4o Mini for lightweight, less demanding tasks). Users can prompt the AI to generate email drafts, write code, or even create images using its image generation model.

The Good:

• Access to a powerful AI model.
• Image generation feature that combines creativity and functionality. This can be used in the visualization of product cards for businesses.
• Allows you to create a custom version of ChatGPT.
• Simplifies tasks like writing, coding, and more.

The Bad:

• Limited free use.
• Sometimes, it provides inaccurate information due to gaps in its dataset.

Key Features

• Writing and Summarization. It helps streamline content creation and summarization tasks.
• Customizable Interaction. You can customize how ChatGPT responds, whether you prefer a casual, professional, or technical tone to match your needs.
• Image Generation. Quickly generates custom images based on user prompts, providing visual assets effortlessly.
• Hands-Free Voice Interaction. With voice mode, you can interact with ChatGPT hands-free, making it convenient for various tasks.
• Canvas. A new feature enables you to work alongside ChatGPT on writing and code projects, refining ideas beyond basic conversation.
• Language Translation. It breaks down communication barriers by allowing you to translate text across multiple languages

AI Capabilities

ChatGPT provides features like natural language understanding, contextual conversations, and image generation. It supports customization with tools for setting instructions, web browsing, code interpretation, and editing text or code using the Canvas feature.

Pricing

• Free ($0/month). This service provides access to GPT-4o mini with standard voice chats and limited features, such as file uploads, web browsing, advanced data analysis, and image generation. It also includes custom GPTs.
• Plus ($20/month). This plan offers extended messaging limits, advanced data tools, voice/video inputs, and limited access to O1 models and Sora video generation. It also allows users to test new features and use custom GPTs.
• Pro ($200/month). This plan offers unlimited access to GPT-4o, o1, and o1 Pro modes for complex tasks. It also includes unlimited voice chats, higher video input limits, and extended Sora video generation.

Who Is This For?

ChatGPT is great for anyone needing help with emails, blogs, or research. Business owners can use it for marketing, and developers can simplify workflows, even with some code generation limits.

Why We Picked This

ChatGPT stands out for its ease of handling complex tasks. Powered by GPT-4, it simplifies topics, boosts productivity, and adapts to diverse needs. Its image generation feature also enhances creativity, making it valuable for both professional and everyday tasks.

Visit ChatGPT

2. Claude AI

Claude AI, built by Anthropic, is designed to enhance productivity by tackling everyday tasks. With its user-friendly interface and multiple LLM options, you can engage in in-depth discussions, learn from them, create content calendars, or even generate code based on your prompts. Thanks to its advanced features, it stands out as a strong alternative to Perplexity AI.

The Good:

• Ethical and safe output.
• Strong conversational abilities.
• Multimodal capabilities for text and image processing.
• Great for data visualization.

The Bad:

• Potential inaccuracies in responses.
• Limited contextual understanding of complex queries.
• No image generation features.

Key Features

• Natural Language Processing: Engages in human-like conversations with a clear understanding of context.
• Content Generation: Helps create summaries and creative writing and even generates code for developers.
• Data Analysis: Handles large datasets to extract insights and simplify analytical tasks.
• Visual Processing: Reviews images and documents to provide detailed insights.
• Collaboration: Makes teamwork easier with shared workflows and project tools.

AI Capabilities

Claude AI is powered by the Claude 3 model family, including Claude 3.5 Haiku and Claude 3.5 Sonnet. It uses natural language processing (NLP) to understand prompts and provide accurate responses. The tool can interact with documents, analyze reports, and assist with writing and coding tasks.

Pricing

• Free Plan ($0, Free for all): Ideal for individuals starting out, accessible on the web, iOS, or Android. Explore features like image and document queries with one of the latest models. 
• Plus Plan ($20/month): Offers more usage, access to Projects, Claude 3 Opus models, early access to new features, and custom GPTs.
• Team Plan ($25/month per member, 5-member minimum): This plan builds on Plus with centralized billing, early collaboration features, and greater usage capabilities. If billed monthly, subscriptions are billed annually at $30/month.

Who’s This Site For

Claude AI is powered by the Claude 3 model family, including Claude 3.5 Haiku and Claude 3.5 Sonnet. It uses natural language processing (NLP) to understand prompts and provide accurate responses. The tool can interact with documents, analyze reports, and assist with writing and coding tasks.

Why We Picked This

Claude AI stands out with its ethical approach, easy-to-use design, and natural interaction style. It’s accurate with coding, great at breaking down complex ideas, and packed with advanced features—making it a solid alternative to Perplexity AI  and a go-to AI chatbot for several users.

Visit Claude AI

3. Jasper AI

Jasper AI is an advanced tool for marketers that offers fast and efficient content creation. It uses natural language processing to generate contextually accurate content, streamlining workflows and enhancing marketing productivity.

The Good:

• High-quality content tailored to specific needs like SEO and brand voice.
• User-friendly interface with extensive tutorials that make it accessible for beginners.
• Versatile content formats, including blog posts, social media posts, and marketing copy.
• Multi-language support enhances usability for global audiences.

The Bad:

• It is more expensive than some competitors, which may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
• May feel less interactive, which could be a drawback for users who prefer a more hands-on writing experience.

Key Features

• Content Generation: Creates full blog posts, articles, social media content, and marketing copies.
• SEO Optimization: Provides tools for optimizing content for search engines to improve visibility and engagement.
• Tone/Style Customization: This feature allows users to adjust the tone and style of content to match their brand voice.
• Platform Integration: Seamlessly integrates with WordPress, Google Docs, and other platforms for easy content management.
• Real-time Collaboration: Supports collaborative content creation, enabling multiple users to work on documents simultaneously.
• Bulk Content Creation: Generates multiple pieces of content at once for efficiency.
• API Access: Offers API integration for advanced customization and automation.

AI Capabilities

Jasper employs a multi-model architecture, utilizing different large language models to select the best model for each specific task. This flexibility ensures it can handle various content needs, from general marketing copy to detailed blog articles.

Pricing

Jasper AI offers several pricing plans:

• Creator ($49/month): Includes one user seat and basic features such as Jasper Chat and SEO mode.
• Pro ($69/month): Offers additional features like multiple brand voices, more knowledge assets, and SEO tools.
• Business (custom pricing): Provides extensive capabilities, including performance analytics, advanced admin tools, and API access for integration into enterprise workflows.

Who Is This Site For?

Jasper AI is ideal for content creators, marketers, and entrepreneurs who need to generate quality content quickly. It’s especially useful for managing multiple projects or scaling content production.

Why We Picked This

Jasper AI stands out for its robust features, ease of use, and ability to produce high-quality content across various formats. Its multi-model architecture makes it suitable for both individuals and large businesses.

Visit Jasper AI

4. Writesonic

Writesonic is an AI tool that simplifies content creation for blogs, articles, ads, and more. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to use, even for beginners. With advanced algorithms, it generates unique, high-quality content quickly, helping businesses save time and improve their marketing efforts.

The Good:

• It is intuitive and easy to use, making it accessible for beginners.
• Supports the creation of diverse content types, including articles, blog posts, and marketing copy.
• It helps users optimize content for search engines, improving visibility and engagement.
• Enables multiple users to work on documents simultaneously.

The Bad:

• AI-generated content may sometimes lack the nuanced touch that a human writer offers.
• The quality of output heavily relies on the specificity of the user's input prompts.
• There's a risk of producing content that lacks originality or depth.

Key Features

• Content Generation: Creates articles, blog posts, product descriptions, social media content, and more.
• Real-time Collaboration: Enables multiple users to work on documents simultaneously.
• Chatsonic AI: Integrates live data for real-time interactions.
• Botsonic: Allows creation of custom chatbots.
• Advanced Features: Includes image generation and editing tools.
• Bulk Content Creation: Supports the generation of multiple articles at once.

AI Capabilities

Writesonic uses advanced AI and natural language processing to generate accurate, high-quality content. Tools like Chatsonic integrate live data and enable dynamic content creation, making it a strong alternative to platforms like Perplexity AI and ChatGPT.

Pricing

• Free Plan: Includes 5 Chatsonic generations and 25 template credits.
• Individual Plan: $20/month (monthly) or $16/month (annually) for unlimited standard content.
• Premium Plans: These plans, starting at $79/month, offer bulk content generation, team management, and advanced SEO tools.

Who Is Writesonic For?

Writesonic is designed for marketers, content creators, and businesses of any size. It’s especially valuable for freelancers, SEO experts, and agencies aiming to simplify content production.

Why We Picked This

Writesonic stands out as an affordable Perplexity AI alternative. Its features include real-time Google search, PDF and webpage interaction, and easy-to-use editing tools, all accessible in both free and premium plans.

Visit Writesonic

5. Copy.ai

Copy.ai is an AI tool that helps businesses and creators generate content quickly. It offers easy-to-use templates for blogs, social media, emails, and more.

The Good:

• Speeds up content creation, ideal for marketers and content creators needing quick results.
• Provides over 90+ copywriting tools, including blog titles, email subject lines, and social media posts.
• Allows for tone and style customization, maintaining a consistent brand voice.
• It offers a free and $49/month Pro plan with unlimited words and access to all features.

The Bad:

• Outputs may lack originality due to potential overlap among users.
• The effectiveness of tone adjustments can vary, requiring some experimentation.
• The recurring cost model might not suit those looking for one-time access.

Key Features

• Diverse Content Creation Tools: Over 90+ tools for generating blog intros, social media posts, email subject lines, and more.
• Brand Mission: Helps define and articulate a brand’s mission across all content types.
• Crazy YouTube Ideas: Generates creative, unique ideas tailored for YouTube content.
• Tone and Style Customization: Allows customization to match a brand’s voice.
• Real-time Collaboration: Enables team collaboration on documents.
• Workflow Builder: Automates and streamlines content creation processes.
• Access to Latest LLMs: Provides access to advanced language models for enhanced content generation.

AI Capabilities

The AI in Copy.ai is adept at understanding user inputs and generating content that aligns with specified tones and styles, though occasional inaccuracies mean manual review and editing are sometimes necessary.

Pricing

• Free Plan: Includes 1 seat, 2,000 words per month, ChatGPT 3.5 & Claude 3 access, Copy.ai brand voice, and Infobase. Free forever, no credit card required.
• Starter Plan: $49/month ($39/month if billed annually) for unlimited words in chat, unlimited chat projects, and access to all the latest LLMs. Includes private community access.
• Advanced Plan: $249/month ($199/month if billed annually) for all Starter features, up to 5 seats, 2,000 workflow credits/month, and access to over 15 marketing and sales workflows along with a workflow builder.

Who’s This Site For

Copy.ai is well-suited for solopreneurs, small businesses, marketers, content creators, and anyone needing to produce high-quality, on-brand content quickly and efficiently. It’s particularly useful for those needing to generate ideas for blogs, social media, emails, and more

Why We Picked This

Copy.ai was selected due to its comprehensive suite of tools and user-friendly interface. Its ability to generate content quickly and customize outputs makes it valuable for a wide range of users, from individual creators to large enterprises.

Visit Copy.ai

FAQs About Perplexity AI

What industries benefit the most from Perplexity AI?

Perplexity AI is useful in education, research, marketing, and business. It helps these industries quickly find and analyze data, making it ideal for academic research and content creation.

How secure is Perplexity AI?

Perplexity AI uses strong security features, like encrypted data handling. The free plan is secure, while the Pro plan adds extra protection for personal data, making it safe for sensitive work.

Can it integrate with existing systems?

Yes, Perplexity AI works well with existing systems. The Pro plan offers an API and workflow builder to help businesses automate tasks and work more efficiently.

Is it suitable for small businesses?

Yes, Perplexity AI is great for small businesses. It offers a free plan for basic tasks and a budget-friendly Pro plan for scaling. Its tools make content creation and market research easy without high costs.

Does it support multiple languages?

Yes, Perplexity AI supports many languages. This makes it ideal for global businesses and educational projects, letting users access and create content in different languages.

Final Thoughts On Perplexity AI

Perplexity AI is a helpful tool for businesses and educators. It integrates well with existing systems, supports many languages, and simplifies content creation.

That said, it’s worth looking into other options if you have specific needs. Knowing what it can do helps you get the most out of it while staying open to tools that might work better for certain tasks.