ChatGPT free vs paid: What do you get?

ChatGPT free vs paid: What do you get?

by Sarah MacPherson, a product manager, ai enthusiast trying to find the best and most interesting ways to work with this new frontier

The free version: ChatGPT 3.5

OpenAI offers a free version of ChatGPT that uses the GPT-3.5 model. This is a great starting point if you're new to AI tools or want to experiment without spending money.

What you get with free ChatGPT:

  • Unlimited messages (though there may be rate limits during peak times)
  • Access to the core chat interface
  • Ability to generate text, answer questions, and help with basic tasks
  • Use on web and mobile apps

What you don't get:

  • Access to the more advanced GPT-4 model
  • Priority access during high-traffic times
  • Faster response times
  • Access to plugins and advanced features like web browsing or image generation (DALL-E)
  • Custom instructions and memory features

For many everyday tasks like drafting emails, brainstorming ideas, or learning new topics, the free version works perfectly fine. We recommend starting here to see if ChatGPT fits your needs.

The paid version: ChatGPT Plus

ChatGPT Plus costs $20 per month and gives you access to the more powerful GPT-4 model along with several premium features.

What you get with ChatGPT Plus:

  • Access to GPT-4, which is better at complex reasoning, nuanced writing, and following detailed instructions
  • Priority access even when demand is high
  • Faster response speeds
  • Early access to new features and improvements
  • Access to plugins that extend ChatGPT's capabilities (like browsing the web for current information, running code, or generating images)
  • Custom instructions to tailor ChatGPT's responses to your preferences
  • Memory feature so ChatGPT remembers context from previous conversations

AI prompt for GPT-4: "Write a detailed analysis comparing renewable energy policies in three European countries, with citations"

Enterprise and Team plans

OpenAI also offers ChatGPT Team (starting at $25 per user per month) and ChatGPT Enterprise (custom pricing) for businesses and organizations. These plans include:

  • Higher usage limits
  • Admin controls and user management
  • Enhanced security and data privacy
  • Priority support
  • Advanced collaboration features

Unless you're working in a business setting with specific organizational needs, these plans are probably overkill.

Should you upgrade to Plus?

We suggest upgrading to ChatGPT Plus if:

  • You use ChatGPT frequently (several times per day)
  • You need help with complex tasks like detailed research, advanced coding, or nuanced writing
  • You want access to current information through web browsing
  • You're frustrated by response times or availability in the free version
  • You want to experiment with plugins and advanced features

Stick with the free version if:

  • You're just starting out and exploring what AI can do
  • Your needs are basic (simple questions, short writing tasks, casual brainstorming)
  • You use ChatGPT infrequently
  • You're on a tight budget

AI prompt: "What's the difference between GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 in simple terms?"

Trying before buying

You can always start with the free version and upgrade later if you find yourself hitting its limitations. OpenAI makes it easy to switch between plans, and you can cancel Plus anytime.

Related resources

Want to get started? See How to sign up for ChatGPT. Looking for more detailed usage guidance? Check out ChatGPT tips and limitations. Wondering if you should use other AI tools too? Visit Can I use multiple AI tools together?.