🏆 Best AI assistants: ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot, Perplexity and Le Chat

In short: they're all good, at different things

In 2026 the basic features of the big AI assistants are very similar. You can type or talk to any of them in plain language, and all of them can draft an email, explain something difficult and summarise a long text. So the key question isn't which one is “best”, but which one fits your daily life, your devices and your needs. The good news is that you can try them all for free.

Six assistants at a glance

How to choose: four questions

1. Which devices do you already use?

If you have an Android phone, Gemini is probably already there and works smoothly with Gmail, Calendar and Maps. On a Windows PC you'll find Copilot in the taskbar. On iPhone, Siri can pass questions to ChatGPT. Starting with the assistant you already have is the easiest route.

2. What do you need help with most?

For a mix of everyday jobs such as recipe ideas, trip planning and letters, ChatGPT is very versatile. If you work with long documents like contracts, reports or tender requests, Claude is a favourite for its clear, natural writing. When you want up-to-date information and like to see where it comes from, Perplexity shows sources with every answer.

3. How much does privacy matter to you?

All of these services process your text on their own servers. Most have a setting that stops your chats being used to improve their models, and it's worth checking that straight away. Le Chat comes from a French company, which appeals to people who want a European option. Whatever you choose, never type ID numbers, passwords or bank details into an assistant. Read more in our guide to security and privacy.

4. Do you need a paid plan?

For most people the free version is plenty. A paid plan, typically around €20 a month, is only worth it once you use the assistant every day for work and keep hitting the free limits. Prices and features change often, so check current details on each service's own website.

Who should pick what?

• First-timers: ChatGPT or whichever assistant is already on your phone. Start with our guide Getting started with AI.
• Retirees wanting everyday help: the assistant already on your phone, ideally used by voice. See also AI for seniors.
• Small business owners: Claude or ChatGPT for quotes, emails and marketing copy.
• Researchers and students: Perplexity for sources, alongside a general assistant.
• Those who value European services: Le Chat.

What about Meta AI in WhatsApp?

Many people have noticed the Meta AI assistant appearing in WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook. It's fine for quick questions, but its Finnish support is more limited than the assistants compared here, and it's the weakest option for privacy. If you want an assistant you can tell about your own affairs or your work, pick one of those above instead. You don't have to use Meta AI just because it shows up in your apps.

The best way to find your favourite

Pick two assistants and use them for a week on real tasks: write an email, ask for a summary of a news article and ask something you already know the answer to. You'll soon notice whose style feels more natural. You can practise writing good instructions with our guide How to write a good prompt.