Perplexity

AI-powered search engine with real-time citations. Answers questions with sources and follow-up suggestions.

Writing Freemium Editor's Pick

Visit perplexity.ai Free tier · 5 Pro searches/day

0.0 /10

Features

9.0

Ease of use

9.3

Value

8.8

Support

8.5

PixlRun verdict

Google killer for research

Launched

December 2022

Starting price

$20/mo

Free trial

Free tier · 5 Pro searches/day

Platforms

Web, iOS, Android, Mac

What is Perplexity?

Perplexity replaces Google for anyone who wants answers with citations instead of 10 blue links. Ask a question, get a summary with numbered source links — every claim is traceable. Pro users can pick the underlying model (GPT-5, Claude 4.7, Grok, Sonar), and the 'Spaces' feature lets you search over your own files. For research, fact-checking, and product comparisons, it's faster than traditional search.

Key features

🔍

Cited answers

Every fact linked to a source — one-click verification.

🧠

Model picker

Choose GPT-5, Claude 4.7, Grok 3, or in-house Sonar.

📁

Spaces

Upload PDFs, docs, and notes — search over your own library.

🎯

Focus modes

Academic, writing, YouTube, Reddit — tailor source sets.

Pros & cons

What we love

Every answer cited — you can verify sources instantly
Pick your model — GPT-5, Claude 4.7, Sonar
Spaces: search over your own uploads
Fast — usually under 3 seconds
Great iOS app with voice mode

What could be better

Free tier only 5 Pro searches per day
Less conversational than ChatGPT — designed for Q&A, not chat
Occasionally picks weak sources for obscure queries

Pricing

Free

Basic Pro searches

Unlimited quick searches
5 Pro searches/day
Limited file uploads

Pro

$20 /mo

For researchers

300+ Pro searches/day
All premium models
Unlimited file uploads
Spaces
Image generation

Best for

🔍

Researchers

Fact-check, compile sources, build literature reviews.

🛒

Shoppers

Compare products with real reviews and pricing.

FAQ

Perplexity vs Google?

Google gives you links and ads. Perplexity gives you the answer with linked sources. For questions with a clear answer, Perplexity is faster. For exploring, Google still has more depth.

Is the free tier useful?

For casual use yes — unlimited basic searches. But 5 Pro searches/day is tight. Pro tier is worth it for anyone doing real research.