ChatGPT vs Perplexity
Compare the differences, pricing, share and features of ChatGPT (OpenAI) and Perplexity (Perplexity AI) with data. We explain which one to pick by use case.
Feature differences (ChatGPT vs Perplexity)
| Feature | ChatGPT | Perplexity |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese support | ○ | ○ |
| Image input | ○ | ○ |
| Image generation | ○ | △ |
| Voice chat | ○ | ○ |
| File reading | ○ | ○ |
| Web search | ○ | ○ |
| Code generation | ○ | △ |
| API | ○ | ○ |
| Mobile app | ○ | ○ |
Pricing differences
Source: Official pricing of each tool (reference values) ／ Captured: 2026-10-17 ／ Check the official site for the latest
Free plans compared: ChatGPT vs Perplexity
When both can be tried for free, the differences in what the free plans include and their limits decide it. Listed as far as official pages state (— = not stated).
| Item | ChatGPT | Perplexity |
|---|---|---|
| Models | GPT-6 Luna | Best (auto) |
| Usage limit | Unlimited everyday text chats (separate limits for uploads, images, etc.) | Practically unlimited basic searches; very few Pro Searches |
| Web search | ○ | ○ |
| Image generation | △ (limited) | × |
| File & image upload | △ (limited) | △ (limited) |
| Voice chat | △ (limited) | — |
| Deep Research | △ (limited) | △ (limited) |
| Training on your inputs | On by default; can be turned off in settings | On by default; can be turned off in settings |
Source: Each vendor's official pricing and help pages ／ Captured: 2026-10-17
Verdict by purpose: which should you pick?
| Purpose | Recommended | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Writing | Both support it | Same feature support. For reference, ChatGPT has the larger global share (68.4% / 9.6%); share measures popularity, not performance. |
| Search & research | Both support it | Same feature support. For reference, ChatGPT has the larger global share (68.4% / 9.6%); share measures popularity, not performance. |
| Coding | ChatGPT | Code generation: ChatGPT ○ / Perplexity △ · API: ChatGPT ○ / Perplexity ○ |
| Image generation | ChatGPT | Image generation: ChatGPT ○ / Perplexity △ |
| Using it for free | ChatGPT | Free-plan differences: Image generation: ChatGPT △ / Perplexity × |
| Keeping costs down | ChatGPT | Cheapest paid plan: ChatGPT $8 / Perplexity $20 |
Verdicts are based on each AI's feature support (reference values compiled by our editors from official information) and published prices. We have not compared output quality itself.
Frequently asked questions
ChatGPT vs Perplexity: which should you pick?
What are the pricing differences between ChatGPT and Perplexity?
Which has the higher share, ChatGPT or Perplexity?
Other comparisons
⚠ These rankings are reference values based on public market-share data, web-traffic estimates and editorial research, and do not represent a complete count of every user of each AI tool. Rankings change with the measurement method (web-visit share vs. market share, etc.). Always check each official site for the latest information.