Perplexity AI vs ChatGPT: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Perplexity AI and ChatGPT comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Perplexity AI
AI-powered answer engine
Best for you if:
- • You need ai assistants features specifically
- • AI-powered answer engine
- • Search with real-time citations
ChatGPT
OpenAI's conversational AI that started the generative AI revolution
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.3/10 vs 8.8/10)
- • You need chatbots features specifically
- • OpenAI's flagship conversational AI
- • Most popular AI chatbot worldwide
| At a Glance |  ChatGPT | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | AI Assistants | Chatbots |
Rating | 88/100 | 93/100 |
| Feature | Perplexity AI | ChatGPT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 93 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AI AssistantsAI Research | ChatbotsAI Writing |
How Perplexity AI and ChatGPT Compare
Perplexity AI
AI-powered answer engine
Free tier available · 88/100 score
ChatGPT
OpenAI's conversational AI that started the generative AI revolution
Free tier available · 93/100 score
Perplexity AI is a ai assistants tool. ChatGPT is in chatbots.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Perplexity AI
Want the highest-rated option?
Perplexity AI: 88/100. ChatGPT: 93/100.
Go with: ChatGPT
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ChatGPT
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Perplexity AI is a ai assistants tool. ChatGPT is in chatbots. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ChatGPT scores higher: 93/100 vs 88/100.
Key Takeaways
ChatGPT
- Higher score: 93/100 vs 88
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Perplexity AI
- Better fit for ai assistants
The Bottom Line
ChatGPT (93/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Perplexity AI or ChatGPT better?
ChatGPT scores 93/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Perplexity AI and ChatGPT used for?
Perplexity AI: AI-powered answer engine. ChatGPT: OpenAI's conversational AI that started the generative AI revolution.
What does Perplexity AI cost vs ChatGPT?
Perplexity AI is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ChatGPT is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.