Guide 04 · Tools

Choosing Your AI Tools

A quick tour of the main AI assistants, what each is best for, and how to get started for free.

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You don't need to try everything. The big general-purpose assistants (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, Microsoft Copilot) all handle everyday writing, questions and planning well, and all have free tiers. Pick one to learn on, use it daily for a week, and add specialized tools only when you have a specific need.

Key takeaways

  • Start with one general assistant; free tiers are plenty for beginners.
  • They differ in style and integrations more than in basic ability.
  • Paid plans (~$20/month) add stronger models, higher limits and extras like voice, files and agents.
  • Use AI that's already built into apps you use (email, docs, phone).
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    The main general assistants

    ToolMade byKnown for
    ChatGPTOpenAIThe most popular all-rounder; voice mode, image creation, custom GPTs.
    ClaudeAnthropicClear, careful writing; great with long documents and coding.
    GeminiGoogleDeep ties to Gmail, Docs, Drive and Android.
    GrokxAIReal-time info from X and the web; image and video generation.
    Microsoft CopilotMicrosoftBuilt into Windows, Edge and Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook).
    PerplexityPerplexitySearch-first answers with source links; good for research.
    Our suggestionIf you live in Google apps, try Gemini. If you use Microsoft Office at work, try Copilot. Otherwise start with ChatGPT, Claude or Grok and go with the one whose style you like.

    Specialized tools (add later)

    • Images: Midjourney, the image features inside ChatGPT, Gemini or Grok, Adobe Firefly.
    • Meetings & transcription: Otter, Fireflies, built-in Zoom/Teams/Meet summaries.
    • Writing polish: Grammarly.
    • Notes & knowledge: NotebookLM (chat with your own documents), Notion AI.
    • Coding: GitHub Copilot, Cursor.

    Free vs. paid

    Free tierPaid (~$20/mo typical)
    Everyday chat & writingYesYes
    Best/newest modelLimited usesMuch higher limits
    File uploads, images, voiceOften limitedGenerous
    Agents, deep researchRarelyUsually included

    Prices and features change often; check each provider's site before paying. Upgrade only when you keep hitting limits.

    Getting set up (10 minutes)

    1. Pick one assistant and create an account on its website or app.
    2. Install the phone app too, so it's handy (voice mode is great on the go).
    3. Open settings and review data/privacy controls (e.g. whether chats are used for training).
    4. Add "custom instructions" or "personalization" if offered: a few lines about you and how you like answers.
    5. Ask your first question: Example promptI'm new to AI assistants. Give me 5 useful things I could ask you today, based on someone who [your job / hobbies].

    Our short list for beginners, with links to each tool's official site. Plans, prices and features change often, so check the site before you pay for anything.

    Affiliate disclosure: some links in this block may be affiliate links. If you sign up for a paid plan through one, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This never affects which tools we recommend. Read our full disclosure.

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