18 Best ChatGPT Alternatives You Must Try in 2024 [Free and Paid]

ChatGPT – the hype around this AI-enabled tool has gripped the world, and why not.

ChatGPT exhibited features that almost threatened humans with taking away their jobs! (Well, to say).

Debates around its capabilities and its threat to cyber security are making headlines every day. On one hand, the Indian government is trying to take over data control by integrating ChatGPT with WhatsApp; on the other hand, a ChatGPT bug seemed to have propelled a leak of payment data after it gained access to the internet.

And amidst all this, the curiosity around websites like Chat GPT has skyrocketed. Many have the question: is chatgpt free, and what more can it help with? This article will look into the 18 best ChatGPT alternatives that quietly but steadily impact businesses, big and small.

But, first things first.

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an AI and machine learning-powered model developed from OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence research lab. It uses natural language processing (NLP) and deep learning to generate human-like responses to conversations in an intelligent manner.

ChatGPT has been trained on millions of conversation examples worldwide, allowing it to understand how humans communicate and respond accordingly.

The popularity has skyrocketed, especially for chatbots and virtual assistants. Since ChatGPT is programmed to comprehend and interpret human language, it may provide responses virtually identical to those of a human being.

The Technology Behind ChatGPT

Open AI ChatGPT is a natural language understanding (NLU) system based on the Transformer architecture. It was trained on a large amount of text data using unsupervised learning. This means it did not get explicit instructions about what to learn but instead discovered patterns and relationships independently.

To produce an appropriate response, it uses the knowledge to produce an understandable response through a cohesive step-by-step process. Open AI ChatGPT’s capacity to produce natural and human-like language is one of its advantages. It enables the model to comprehend the context and provide answers suitable for the particular circumstance.

Note: ChatGPT’s data cut-off is at 2021. This can be an explanation to why ChatGPT may not know about recent trends or news.

Even though the cut-off date is 2021, ChatGPT has the capability to come up with accurate responses based on its training data. Its living proof is a recent story on how ChatGPT aided in saving a dog’s life by making a correct diagnosis of the blood test results.

Data maybe limited to a certain date but websites like Chat GPT has the ability to detect patterns. This is why it could detect the medical symptoms with more accuracy than answering abstract questions like what will I do after graduation! 

The Problem

ChatGPT is not the only or the first AI-enabled chatbot. Almost hundreds of chatbots in various languages are competing with ChatGPT. However, the free version of ChatGPT garnered 1 million subscribers in one week. The momentum was so strong that people considered it a threat to Google’s search engine, tagging it as Code Red for Google’s search engine.

Despite the fact that it could detect a medical condition with absolute accuracy, cases like these are scarce. In a majority of scenarios, inaccuracies in its responses forced people to cross-check responses from external sources, unlike Google!

This is exactly why StackOverflow has banned answers from ChatGPT, stating that it harms the community and people looking for correct answers. Infact, if you signup for ChatGPT, the platform itself will show you this prompt –

Probably this is the reason why the tool has its limitations listed officially.

Everything seems to be leading up to the single fact –

AI has a long way to go. ChatGPT has a lot of training to do!

Be it any situation, a Language Learning Model can replicate human conversations but it will never be able to replicate human emotions or the prose like conversations.

Saying never may be too much, especially when deep learning enthusiasts continuously study the human brain’s and neural networks’ similarities and dissimilarities.

Also Read: What is Perceptron – The Founding Element of Neural Networks

ChatGPT Alternatives to Try in 2024 [and beyond]

OpenAI ChatGPT is a highly trained AI tool, but other tools can help you make the most of technology for your business. Here is a list of the best ChatGPT alternatives that can change how you and your teams operate.

We have categorized all the alternatives to ChatGPT into 9 categories:

Let’s get started.

Alternative to Chat gpt for Writing

1. Chatsonic

•  Freemium model 

ChatSonic from Writesonic is among the best AI chatbots. It utilizes Natural Language Processing (NLP) to assist you in creating unique, non-plagiarized text. It is an AI-powered chatbot designed to assist in writing content. 

ChatSonic outperforms ChatGPT as it is more updated on news and trends. It includes advanced capabilities, including creating art from texts and comprehending voice commands. ChatSonic is easy to use for all types of users.

• User Rating: 5/5 (G2)

Features:

• Cost-effective automation
• Persona-based content creation
• Natural language processing
• Image generation
• Code generation
• Works with voice commands

2. Jasper AI

•  Paid platform 

• Stays updated with the latest information
• Includes source links with answers
• AI image generation support
• Has a dedicated section for writing essays and posts
• Fast results processing
• Contextual answers
• Real-time information
• Multimodal search
• Provides citations
• Prompt responses
• Conversational search

12. Elicit

•   Free  

Elicit is a ground-breaking research assistant that uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to automate the research process. It improves the efficiency and accuracy of academic research by making things easier for researchers. 

Researchers and students typically use Elicit to find essential papers to cite and understand potential future research possibilities. You can access relevant data without depending on specific keyword matches.

• User rating: NA

Features: 

• Advanced filtering options are provided based on study type
• Elicit enables the scholar to navigate through the citation graph in both forward and backward directions
• Elicit can generate summaries of the abstract
• Locating the papers that did not match the exact keywords

ChatGPT Alternatives for Social Media

13. ChatSonic Twitter Bot

•   Free  

A Twitter Bot by WriteSonic, ChatSonic, responds to Twitter queries. The bot is activated by tagging ChatSonic in a Tweet. GPT -4 capabilities power it) and addresses the limitations of ChatGPT. 

ChatSonic can generate answers based on internet searches making it the best Chat GPT alternative. Empowered by 16 different personas, the tool allows you to drive human-like conversations.

• User rating: 5/5 (G2)

Features: 

• Easily accessible on Twitter
• Replies within seconds of tagging and asking a question
• Easily accessible from both mobile or Twitter web

14. Poe by Quora

•   Free  

The acronym POE stands for “Platform for Open Exploration.” While ChatGPT remains a hot topic, Quora’s AI experiment with conversational chatbots and text analytics has brought POE to the forefront. 

It is a self-replicating NLP technology-powered storytelling tool that engages users in conversation by posing queries. It usually responds to frequently asked questions (FAQs) and addresses various general topics. Currently, an iOS app for this tool is accessible online.

• User rating: 4.7/5 (Apple App Store)

Features: 

• You can use Poe to access several conversational AI platforms simultaneously
• AI programmers will be able to easily attach their model to Poe using the API that Quora is developing, making it easier to use than ever before
• The Apple Store offers an iOS app for Poe

Alternative of Chat GPT to Talk

15. Chinchilla

•   Pricing model not known  

The DeepMind research team created the language model known as Chinchilla AI, which was made public in March of 2022. A huge language model called Chinchilla AI claims to outperform GPT-3 as it has been trained on four times more data.

Companies can use Chinchilla AI to improve decision-making and streamline processes. It provides the path for businesses to develop and release AI-powered applications, boosting the functionality of digital products. More details on the technology are available in DeepMind’s research paper. 

• User rating: 3.7/5 (Whitecream)

Features: 

• The model processes large amounts of data quickly and accurately
• Consumes very little energy
• Relatively inexpensive to create
• Chinchilla would be extremely valuable in the development of chatbots and virtual assistants
• Creates short-form or long-form essays

16. Character AI

•   Available for FREE trial  

Character.ai is a fascinating new tool for developers who want to give their characters a life of their own through spontaneous conversations. Many applications are possible thanks to the platform’s proprietary technology. It is based on large language models and enables the quick and simple creation of engaging characters.

One of the main characteristics of character.AI is the combination of computer and user interactions. The ability to swiftly develop conversation and explore many scenarios makes this a valuable tool for authors and storytellers.

• User rating: 2.8/5 (Trustpilot)

Features: 

• Speech-to-text
• Privacy control
• Brainstormer
• Language translation
• Beyond plain text
• Character development
• Numerous themes
• Quick mode
• Built-in image generator for avatar creation

Other Alternatives to Try

17. Replika

•   Freemium model  

Replika is an AI platform that works as a customizable and interactive chatbot. It uses a Large Language Model and scripted dialogue content. The tool replicates true human interactions. 

Replika is a neural network machine learning model. It generates unique responses as it has been trained on a large dataset of texts. It offers a wholesome dialog experience to people looking for someone to chat with. The tool has commendable memory capabilities, context recognition, and role-play features that enhance the overall conversation quality.

Features: 

• A database of questions and answers to enrich the conversation
  
• Fun games to improve the connection between users
  
• Tests and surveys to examine the interests and preferences of users
  
• Content recommendations to discover new perspectives and conversation topics
  
• Self-help resources to learn about topics like mental health and self-awareness
  
• Tools to enjoy interactive content such as videos, images, and GIFs
  

User rating	4.5/5 on Apple Store
Pro	Engaging conversations Remembers past responses Video calling with AI Easy to use Personalized conversation Emotional support
Cons	Features locked behind a paywall Expensive subscription Users can report errors to the support team Increase in risks Repetitive responses Limited capabilities
Pricing	Generic version is Free Pro Price: $49.99 per year Lifetime plan available

18. Socratic by Google

•   Free  

The Google Socratic app is a free ChatGPT alternative for students. It enables users to ask questions about high school or university academics. It offers in-depth visual explanations, video links, and curated search results from reliable websites. 

Users can ask questions by uploading a picture of the question on the paper. It also supports voice commands and allows you to input a query or search word by exploring the topics.

Features:

• Works for all the subjects 
• Expert-created study guide
• Everything is available in one place 
• Helpful results

User rating	4.9/5 on Apple Store
Pro	Quick and easy to use Provides legitimate, scholarly definitions of subject matter Helps with math problems by providing step-by-step solutions Searches other sites for answers Allows users to check their answers
Cons	Update removed step-by-step solutions Does not provide as much help as before
Pricing	Free

This brings us to (almost) the end of the list. ChatGPT will continue to evolve and so will its alternatives. It is important to understand the technology behind these AI-powered tools and some basic differences like AI chatbot vs. AI Writer. Let’s look at the foundation blocks of using tools like ChatGPT.

Chatbots vs. AI Writer

• Chatbots

Chatbots are different from AI writing tools. A chatbot is designed to mimic human-user conversations through text or voice exchanges. It works to resolve user inquiries quickly. However, a chatbot will not be able to handle complicated queries because a chatbot will not have the capability to ‘formulate an answer’ on its own. This is because a chatbot is trained with data pertaining to a particular brand and general user queries. 

For instance, the chat help we see on every website can capture first-level user data, help with help docs about the brand, and even show you relevant pages for your query. But when it comes to handling complex queries about the product, it will either falter and repeat the same answer or prompt back with ‘raising a ticket to connect you with one of our representatives’. Here’s how –

The Amazon Chatbot will continue showing the same options. This chatbot is trained to answer queries about orders, delivery, product info, account details, etc. Anything more complicated than this is beyond its capabilities.

To escalate or resolve your issue, you must manually type in that you need more support. The chatbot will catch your phrase and automatically show you options to connect with an agent.  It will then connect you to one of the representatives who can help resolve the issue; like this:

Chatbots do not make up content. They are built to handle user queries and resolve them quickly. A chatbot is trained to escalate the issue if it has no answer.

• AI Writers

AI Writing tools are different. They are more intelligent and are capable of writing long-form articles. AI Writers are trained in a vast volume of text data. This makes them capable of producing human-like content on a given subject or keyword.

For instance, look at Writesonic, an AI-powered writing assistant that can easily generate short-form and long-form content.

Tools like Writesonic are trained on advanced machine learning algorithms to generate or produce human-friendly content. Tools like these are highly intelligent and capable of learning independently and creating content on any subject matter. It gets smarter by the day, analyzing your writing patterns and suggestions and improving its content based on the learning.

How do AI Chatbots Work?

AI chatbots combine machine learning techniques and NLP to replicate human-like conversations with consumers. The chatbot uses NLP to decipher the user’s purpose and interpret the input. After then, based on the input it received and its prior contacts with the user, it applies machine learning algorithms to choose the best response.

Chatbots can be pre-programmed with predefined answers for frequent user requests or trained on massive datasets of human talks. They can be connected with websites or chat services to offer real-time support and boost user engagement. Chatbots are growing more complex as technology develops, with the capacity to recognize context, mood, and emotional states.

How to Choose the Right Chatbot?

ChatGPT is the most robust open-source conversational AI platform available, providing powerful features and capabilities for natural language understanding and text generation. However, it ultimately depends on your needs and the complexity of the conversations you plan to have.

For instance, if you want to create basic chatbots with predefined responses, you can use platforms like Dialogflow, which feature graphical user interfaces that make it easy to create simple bots without any coding knowledge required. The platforms provide more advanced features like microservices integration and NLP capabilities for more sophisticated conversations.

Jasper AI might be a better fit if you need more advanced NLP and text generation capabilities. It is a powerful tool to generate text in response to given prompts and has been used to create realistic content. However, its open-source nature requires some technical knowledge to use correctly.

Future of AI Chatbots

Businesses and organizations rapidly use them to boost consumer interaction and optimize operations. Research shows that the conversations handled by conversational AI have increased by 250% across multiple industries post-pandemic. 

The AI market continues to grow at an impressive rate, with a CAGR of 38.1% predicted between 2022 and 2030.

Because of developments in natural language processing, machine learning, and other AI technologies, AI chatbots are anticipated to grow more sophisticated and human-like in their interactions.

Chatbots can be coupled with smart speakers or other devices to offer users personalized and context-aware support. The use of AI chatbots is to provide prompt and effective answers to simple questions. It can also help automate conversation and content-generation tasks. Thus, another growth area is freeing human agents from handling more complicated problems.

AI chatbots will likely combine with other cutting-edge technologies like augmented and virtual reality to create more immersive and engaging user interfaces. The general trend for AI chatbots is anticipated to be increased sophistication, personalization, and technology integration.

Conclusion

AI chat tools will become popular as companies and organizations try to improve consumer interaction and streamline processes. And it is expected to reshape digital communication and transform how we interact with technology.

FAQs

1. Are there any other websites like Chat GPT?

Although several ChatGPT alternatives are available in the market, Jasper, Chatsonic, and Microsoft Bing are the leading ones. These AI tools are powered by upgraded technology and are backed by extended features with internet accessibility.

2. Which AI is better than ChatGPT?

According to OpenAI, GPT-4 is more capable and better than ChatGPT. Based on an upgraded GPT version, GPT-4 is a multimodal large language model. It can effectively respond to both texts and messages. 

GPT-4 is also claimed to be 60% less likely to make stuff up. And in comparison to GPT – 3.5, it is 82% less likely to respond to requests for content that OpenAI does not allow.

3. Is there a free version of ChatGPT?

Yes, the basic version of ChatGPT can be accessed for free. Since it is available via a webpage, there is no need to download it. The web page is quite simple and includes an area for the results. It also offers a text box at the bottom of the page to ensure seamless user interrogation.

4. What is Google’s equivalent to ChatGPT?

Google BARD is the newly released Google equivalent to ChatGPT. This experimental conversational AI service is powered by Google’s lightweight model version of LaMDA. It brings in information directly from the web and provides the latest responses. However, it is currently available to a few trusted testers, as the company plans to add more advanced AI features to Google search.

5. Which AI is better than ChatGPT?

Chinchilla AI is considerably better than ChatGPT and is called the “GPT Killer.” It is an AI language model created by DeepMind, a subdivision of Google. However, it is nothing similar to Google BARD.

The company claims Chinchilla outperforms its competing LLMs and even predominant models like GPT-3. 

However, it is not yet available for public use, so users looking forward to accessing this alternative will have to wait until the release.

6. Who is the competitor of GPT?

Although GPT is the internet’s favorite, numerous similar platforms are determined to replace GPT with its exceptional features. Some are OPT, BLOOM, Google LAMDA, PALM, and Character AI.

7. Is Google Meena available?

Google Meena is not yet available to access for the end users. The company says the software is still under evaluation for associated risks and benefits of externalizing the model checkpoints. However, it is expected to be released soon to enhance the productivity of advanced research in the field.