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Productivity & research

Which AI tool should I use to research a topic with sources?

Answer engines and deep-research modes search the web and return cited reports; always click through to verify claims.

  1. Rank 1

    Perplexity

    Verdict Built around cited answers, fast, and its free tier is useful for everyday research. Citations sometimes don't fully support the claim, so you still need to check them.

    Best for
    Quick cited answers and ongoing research
    Price
    Free tier: yes. $17/mo (billed annually). Official page showed only the annual-billing price for Pro; monthly-billing price not confirmed.
    Last checked

  2. Rank 2

    ChatGPT

    Verdict Deep research produces long, structured reports, and limited access is even available on free and $8 Go plans. Reports take minutes and can confidently include weak sources.

    Best for
    In-depth reports on complex topics
    Price
    Free tier: yes. $8/mo. $8/mo is ChatGPT Go; Plus is $20/mo with expanded deep research.
    Last checked

  3. Rank 3

    Claude

    Verdict Excellent at synthesising long sources into clear writing, with web search on all plans. The dedicated Research feature is paid-only.

    Best for
    Turning research into well-written summaries
    Price
    Free tier: yes. $20/mo. Pro $17/mo billed annually. Research feature is paid-only.
    Last checked

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