Why I Abandoned Free AI Tools and What I Use Now

There are plenty of free AI tools available, and I’ve tried a multitude of them. However, I’ve made the switch to paid alternatives and have no intention of reverting to free versions.

The limitations of free AI tools ultimately pushed me away. For instance, as a writer, I often rely on Grammarly. The free version helps with basic spelling and grammar checks, but it falls short when it comes to clarity and other essential writing elements.

Similarly, I used ChatGPT and Perplexity, but the differences between the free and paid plans became increasingly apparent. With Perplexity Pro, I benefit from more daily searches and can utilize the tool without constantly worrying about exceeding my limits.

Additionally, lack of priority support played a significant role in my decision to stop using free AI tools. When using ChatGPT, I often missed out on new features and was not guaranteed access during peak times with the free plan. This created a frustrating experience, requiring me to carefully plan when to use the app.

Here’s a look at the paid tools I currently prefer:

1. ChatGPT Plus

ChatGPT Plus comes at a cost of $20 per month, and I believe it’s well worth the investment. With the premium plan, I gain access to DALL-E for creating images, allowing me to experiment with different visuals for my articles.

Another great aspect of ChatGPT Plus is the ability to create Custom GPTs, which I consider an underappreciated feature. I deploy these AI assistants for various tasks, such as developing a tailored Olympic weightlifting regimen last summer.

Furthermore, with ChatGPT Plus, I get access to the latest version, which means more accurate responses. The platform also experiences far fewer crashes compared to my time using the free version.

2. Grammarly Pro

Grammarly Pro has significantly improved my writing skills, both directly and indirectly. Since I began using it, I tend to make fewer errors, knowing I have a reliable tool to catch spelling and grammar issues, allowing me to deliver flawless content to my clients.

I once paused my use of Grammarly Pro for two months, only to realize how crucial it was for my workflow. One of its standout features is the Clarity section, which helps me eliminate unnecessary fluff in my writing. It also assists in revising my text when necessary.

While Microsoft Editor presents some competition, Grammarly Pro remains the superior choice in my opinion. I especially value its ability to suggest better words for various contexts. At just $144 per year, it’s a valuable investment given the extensive features it offers.

3. Perplexity Pro

I genuinely enjoy the free version of Perplexity, but I decided to upgrade to the $20/month premium version mainly for its larger usage limits. Now, I’m allowed 300 searches daily, which, although not unlimited, is usually sufficient for my needs.

Another feature that makes Perplexity Pro worthwhile is its capability to analyze different file formats, including images and CSV files. Access to improved support is also a plus; thankfully, I haven’t needed it yet, but it’s reassuring to know it’s available if necessary.

While free AI tools do have certain advantages, I found them inadequate for my growing needs. Having expanded allowances was critical in maximizing these tools’ potential, and I’m glad I made the investment. If you find yourself hitting the limits of free software, I encourage you to consider a similar shift.