Perplexity
Best overallAI search that answers with citations you can actually check
Our verdict
The fastest way to get a citable answer — but open every source before you quote it.
Perplexity searches the live web and writes an answer with every claim linked to its source, so follow-ups stay grounded in what's actually online. Pro unlocks stronger models and longer Deep Research reports, but the free tier already covers most day-to-day questions.
How we scored it
What we liked
- ✓Inline citations on every answer
- ✓Generous free tier
- ✓Follow-up questions keep their context
What to watch
- ✕Citations sometimes land on weak sources
- ✕No access to paywalled literature
Key features
- ◆Cited answers
- ◆Deep Research reports
- ◆Focus modes
- ◆File uploads
- ◆Spaces
- ◆Mobile apps
Best for
Head-to-head
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