Free Tier Comparison
Which AI should I use?
All four AIs below are free. An honest breakdown of what each can actually do on the free plan — and what it's best for.
Last updated: May 2025 · Free tier limits change frequently — always verify on the provider's website.
| Tool | Image Upload | Web Search | Daily Limit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ChatGPT OpenAI | ✓ | ✓ | ~10–15 messages per 3 hours on GPT-4o, then drops to GPT-4o mini (unlimited) | General questionsStructured explanations |
Claude Anthropic | ✓ | ✕ | ~5–10 messages per day on the full model, then paused until the next day | Long-form essay writingGP paragraph feedback |
DeepSeek DeepSeek AI | ✕ | ✓ | Generous free usage — no strict daily cap currently | Maths problem solvingStep-by-step working |
Gemini Google | ✓ | ✓ | Very generous — effectively unlimited on the free tier currently | Current affairs research for GPPhoto of textbook questions |
Detailed breakdown
ChatGPT
OpenAIFree model: GPT-4o (limited)
✓Image upload
✓Web search
Good for:
- · General questions
- · Structured explanations
- · Step-by-step maths
Less ideal for:
- · Long essays in one go (hits limit fast)
- · Sustained back-and-forth on complex topics
Tip: Start with your most important question — the free limit resets every few hours.
Open ChatGPT →Claude
AnthropicFree model: Claude Sonnet (limited)
✓Image upload
✕Web search
Good for:
- · Long-form essay writing
- · GP paragraph feedback
- · Nuanced argument checking
Less ideal for:
- · Current events (no web access)
- · Quick back-and-forth (limited messages)
Tip: Best for GP essays. Use your daily quota on essay drafting, not quick questions.
Open Claude →DeepSeek
DeepSeek AIFree model: DeepSeek-V3 / R1
✕Image upload
✓Web search
Good for:
- · Maths problem solving
- · Step-by-step working
- · Unlimited practice questions
Less ideal for:
- · Photo of handwritten questions (no image upload)
- · GP essay nuance
Tip: Best free option for E Math. Use R1 mode for harder problems — it shows its reasoning.
Open DeepSeek →Gemini
GoogleFree model: Gemini 2.0 Flash
✓Image upload
✓Web search
Good for:
- · Current affairs research for GP
- · Photo of textbook questions
- · Unlimited daily use
Less ideal for:
- · Complex multi-step maths reasoning
- · Long essay drafts
Tip: Best for GP research and current examples. Can search the web and process images — great for finding real-world examples.
Open Gemini →Recommended setup for Singapore students
For GP
Use Claude for essay drafting and feedback. Use Gemini for finding current examples and research.
For E Math
Use DeepSeek as your main solver (no limit). Use ChatGPT when you want a second opinion.