Best Google Bard Alternatives 2023 (Free & Paid)

ByExpert Answer Last Update on

Google recently unveiled its new AI chatbot called Bard. This chatbot is designed to provide helpful information to users by conversing with them in natural language.

Bard is currently only available in limited preview to testers in the US. The wider rollout likely won‘t happen for several more months. So what are the alternatives for those that want to try an AI chatbot now?

In this post, we‘ll highlight the top alternatives to Google Bard that are available in 2024, both free and paid versions.

What is Google Bard?

Before jumping into the alternatives, let‘s provide some background on what Bard is and why Google built it.

Bard is powered by LaMDA, Google‘s large language model that contains billions of parameters. LaMDA is trained on massive datasets to have natural conversations on any topic.

Some key abilities Bard has:

  • Converse in a friendly, natural way on open-ended topics
  • Provide creative suggestions and thought-provoking responses
  • Admit when it doesn‘t know something
  • Cite reputable sources when providing information

Google hopes Bard will provide an "experimental conversational AI service" that helps people get quick answers and inspiration as they go about their day.

Why Look for Alternatives?

As mentioned, Google Bard is only available in limited preview, restricted to testers that apply via a waitlist. The wider release likely won‘t happen until later in 2024.

So for those that want to experience an AI chatbot now, looking at alternatives is the best approach. The good news is there are already some excellent options available.

Benefits of trying an alternative chatbot:

  • Immediately accessible, no waitlist
  • Features may differ from Bard
  • Some are completely free to use
  • Opportunity to compare features and capabilities

Let‘s look at the top contenders across both paid and free categories.

Top Paid Bard Alternatives

1. Anthropic – Claude

Anthropic takes a different approach to training AI models, focusing more on safety and helpfulness. Their chatbot Claude has received lots of positive feedback for thoughtful responses.

Currently in limited release, with plans for wider availability in 2024. Pricing not yet announced but expected to be competitive.

2. Character.ai

Character bills itself as an "AI companion for your life." Focuses on emotional intelligence and providing supportive conversation on life issues.

Pricing starts at $15/month for the Companion plan. More expensive Business plan focuses on customer service use cases.

3. QuillBot AI

QuillBot released its chatbot app QuillBot AI in late 2022. It focuses on providing essay help, paraphrasing, and creative writing prompts.

The chatbot is only available on iOS for now. Subscription pricing starts at $9.99 per month.

4. YouChat

YouChat positions itself as a family-friendly AI chatbot. Its strengths include generating ideas/stories, offering advice, and casual conversation.

Pricing currently $9.99 per month, cheaper if paying annually. Free trial available.

Best Free Bard Alternatives

Here are some solid free options to experience AI chatbots.

1. ChatGPT

ChatGPT from OpenAI is the chatbot that took the world by storm in late 2022. Despite some limitations around factual accuracy, it demonstrates remarkable conversational ability.

The free version has usage limits, but is handy for testing capabilities. A Pro version ($20/month) removes limits.

2. Claude.ai

Claude.ai is a lightweight web chatbot with some fun personality. Easy to use with no account required. Good for casual conversation and humor.

Created by Anthropic as a demo of their natural language capabilities. Free with no limits.

3. YouChat Lite

A free tier of the YouChat bot focused on basic conversation abilities. Ask questions, get advice, hear stories, and chat about casual topics.

No sign-up required. Good way to get a feel for YouChat‘s chatbot design.

4. Kuki Chatbot

Kuki is an open-source chatbot that keeps improving as more people contribute conversational data. It runs right in your web browser.

Fun for casual chats and entertainment questions. Completely free and easy to try out.

Key Decision Factors for Choosing a Chatbot

With many options now available, focus on a few key factors when evaluating chatbots:

  • Capabilities – What use cases does it excel at? Tutoring, advice, casual chat, etc.
  • Personality – Is it thoughtful, creative, witty? Does the conversation style appeal?
  • Accuracy – Does it provide correct info or admit when unsure?
  • Accessibility – Is it easy to get started? Restrictions on use?
  • Price – Paid or free? If paid, is the value justified?

Taking the time to test different chatbots will help reveal the right fit based on your needs and preferences.

Get Started Experiencing AI Chatbots

Google Bard represents an exciting advancement in conversational AI, but its full release remains months away. In the meantime, the alternatives highlighted here provide a great way to immediately experience the power of chatbots.

Whether you want a free taste or are willing to pay for advanced capabilities, excellent options are available. Test out a few alternatives to discover the right chatbot to suit your current needs.

Similar Posts