Artificial intelligence shows up everywhere in the news, yet most Americans still aren’t sure which AI tools are worth using—or what they even do. The truth is that you don’t need to know anything technical to understand today’s major AIs. Each one has its own strengths, personality, and everyday uses. And the best part? Every major AI tool has a free version, so you can try them without spending a dollar.
Here’s a simple guide to the five most widely used generative AIs today and what they’re best at.
1. ChatGPT
ChatGPT is the AI most people have heard of—and for good reason. It’s one of the easiest to use and great for almost any language-based task. You can ask ChatGPT to write emails, explain ideas, create recipes, plan trips, compare products, summarize documents, or brainstorm gift ideas. The free version is surprisingly capable. A paid version is available for people who want faster, more detailed responses or use it for work, but most casual users never need to upgrade. If you want an AI that feels like a friendly, helpful assistant, ChatGPT is a great place to start.
2. Google Gemini
Gemini is Google’s newest AI and is especially helpful if you already use Gmail, Google Maps, Google Photos, or an Android phone. Gemini can help summarize your inbox, plan meals, check weather details, translate text, or compare prices. If you’re a traveler, Gemini can suggest routes, highlight local attractions, and help build a packing list. There’s a free version for everyday tasks and a paid “Gemini Advanced” option for people who want deeper explanations or more complex reasoning. Parents and students often find Gemini helpful for homework support and everyday planning.
3. Claude
Claude, created by Anthropic, is known for being clear, calm, and exceptionally good at understanding long documents. If you upload a PDF from a doctor, a school, or a workplace, Claude can summarize it in plain English. Writers, teachers, and researchers appreciate how “gentle” it feels compared to other AIs. Claude is great for brainstorming, writing, editing, organizing projects, and breaking down complex topics. It also has one of the strongest free plans available, which makes it a favorite among anyone looking for a friendly and thoughtful AI partner.
4. Perplexity
Perplexity is the best AI if you want real-time research with sources. Unlike traditional search engines, Perplexity scans the web, collects the most reliable information, and summarizes it clearly—then shows you where it found the data. It’s great for comparing prices, checking news, learning how something works, looking up health-related questions (without replacing a doctor), or researching a topic quickly. People often use Perplexity alongside another AI because it’s so strong at fact-finding. The free version is excellent, but a paid plan offers deeper analysis.
5. Microsoft Copilot
Copilot works inside the tools many people already use: Windows, Edge, Word, Excel, and Outlook. If you write documents, make spreadsheets, or manage email, Copilot can save huge amounts of time. It can draft letters, summarize inboxes, help you format resumes, organize data, or prepare presentations. There’s a free version built into Windows and Microsoft’s browser, plus a paid option for more advanced features. Copilot’s biggest strength is convenience—if your life already runs on Microsoft apps, this AI fits right in.
Which AI should you use?
The simple answer: try two or three and see which one feels right. There’s no risk, and all offer free plans. ChatGPT is great for writing and conversation. Gemini works well for everyday life and travel. Claude is gentle and great with long documents. Perplexity is unmatched for research. Copilot is ideal for Microsoft users.
AI isn’t something to be intimidated by. Once you test a few tools, you’ll quickly discover how helpful they can be for planning, learning, organizing, and simplifying your daily routines. A few minutes of exploration can save you hours every week—and help you feel more confident in a digital world.
Cindy Taylor is the Publisher of Digital Wealth News and AI&Finance, a national voice at the intersection of technology, money, and modern consumer life. Her work reaches more than 300,000 readers each week across newsletters, media channels, and events, including the Big Sky AI Forum.
