Perplexity
Perplexity is an AI answer engine: Answers with up-to-date sources instead of ten blue links like in a Google search.
Perplexity is an answer engine: You ask a question, the tool searches the web live, and responds in prose with numbered sources. For many users, it has replaced Google Search for knowledge-based queries.
You use it for market research, competitor comparisons, fact-checking before client meetings, or detailed technical questions. Its strength compared to ChatGPT: Answers are, by default, sourced and up-to-date, not reconstructed from the model's memory.
However, ChatGPT and Gemini have caught up with their search modes, and Perplexity is the wrong tool for creative or long texts. The citations also deserve a second look: Occasionally, the linked source only partially supports a statement.
Ideal for anyone who researches daily: consultants, founders, editorial teams. The basic version is free; Pro costs around $20 per month. Those who primarily want to create texts or automate processes are better off with ChatGPT or Claude.
Functions
- Source transparency: each statement linked to its source
- Model selection in the Pro subscription between GPT, Claude, and custom models
- Focus modes for science, social media, or videos
- Pro subscription for around $20 per month, basic version free
- Comet Browser for research directly while browsing
Core Functions
- Answers to questions with sources and citations
- Live web search instead of frozen training data
- Deep Research for detailed reports with dozens of sources
- File upload for questions about PDFs and documents
- Spaces for collaborative team research
Alternatives to
Perplexity
moinAI
moinAI is an AI chatbot from Hamburg that automatically handles customer inquiries across marketing, sales, and support.
SAP Joule
SAP Joule is SAP's AI copilot that answers questions and handles tasks across all your SAP applications.
NiCE Cognigy
NiCE Cognigy is an enterprise AI agent platform for customer service that automatically handles calls and chats.
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Aleph Alpha
Aleph Alpha is the Heidelberg-based AI company building sovereign European AI for corporations and government agencies.