The honest answer: the well-known ones are more alike than different, and any of them is fine for getting started. Here’s a plain-language look at each so you can pick one and get going.
Independent and unpaid. We have no affiliate links or partnerships with any of these companies. Features and prices change often, so always check the official website or app store listing.
ChatGPT
by OpenAI
Good for
All-round help: drafting, explaining, brainstorming, and voice conversations. It’s the tool most people have heard of, so tutorials are everywhere.
Who it suits
Most beginners who want one general-purpose assistant.
Cost
Has a free version, with paid plans for more use or features. Check the official site for current pricing.
Privacy tip
Turn off chat history or training use in settings if you prefer; avoid pasting anything sensitive.
Start here if you want the most widely used option with lots of how-to help online.
Claude
by Anthropic
Good for
Careful, clear writing and working through long documents, such as summarizing a report or tightening a letter.
Who it suits
People who do a lot of reading and writing, and like a calm, thorough tone.
Cost
Has a free version, with paid plans for more use or features. Check the official site for current pricing.
Privacy tip
Review the data and training settings in your account, and use non-sensitive documents.
Start here if your main tasks are writing, editing, or understanding long text.
Gemini
by Google
Good for
Everyday questions, plus help inside Google tools like Gmail and Docs if you use them.
Who it suits
Households already using Google accounts, Android phones, or Google’s work apps (Gmail, Docs).
Cost
Has a free version, with paid plans for more use or features. Check the official site for current pricing.
Privacy tip
It can connect to your Google apps. Check which apps and activity it can see, and turn off what you don’t want.
Start here if you live in Gmail, Google Docs, or an Android phone.
Microsoft Copilot
by Microsoft
Good for
Web answers with links, and help inside Word, Outlook, and Excel where available.
Who it suits
Windows users and workplaces that run on Microsoft 365.
Cost
Has a free version, with paid plans for more use or features. Check the official site for current pricing.
Privacy tip
At work, use the version your employer approves and follow its AI policy.
Start here if you use Windows or Microsoft Office every day.
Apple Intelligence
by Apple
Good for
Built-in helpers on supported iPhones, iPads, and Macs: rewriting text, summarizing notifications, and smarter Siri requests.
Who it suits
Apple users who want help inside apps they already use, without a separate chat app.
Cost
Included free on supported Apple devices.
Privacy tip
Apple does much of the work on your device itself; some requests may go to outside services, and your device tells you when. Review settings.
Start here if you have a recent Apple device and want light, built-in help.
Quick picks
Not sure at all? Pick any one with a free version and try three prompts from our free prompts page. You can always switch.
Already use Google or Microsoft? Try Gemini or Copilot so help shows up where you already work.
Have a recent Apple device? Explore the built-in Apple Intelligence features first.
For work: ask what your employer allows before using any tool with work information.
Safety checks for any tool
Download only the official app, from the company or your device’s app store. Look-alike apps exist.
Don’t pay for a “premium AI” offered through an ad or unexpected message.
Look in settings for chat history, memory, and training options.
Nothing here is a product endorsement or professional advice.
