What are the best free AI tools?

Best free AI tools right now: ChatGPT is the best all-around pick, Google Gemini is best for Google users and quick web-style answers, Claude is best for polished writing and long-document help, Microsoft Copilot is best if you live in Windows/Edge/Office, Perplexity is best for research with cited answers, Canva is best for quick AI-assisted design, and NotebookLM is best for working with your own notes and documents.

Most “free” AI tools have usage limits, model restrictions, or paid upgrades, so the best choice depends on what you’re doing: writing, coding, research, images, presentations, spreadsheets, or studying.