Perplexity AI
AI-powered answer engine with cited, real-time research
Perplexity AI is a conversational search engine that combines large language models with real-time web search to deliver direct, sourced answers with citations. Founded in 2022, it has grown to over 45 million monthly active users and processes more than 1 billion queries per month. The platform offers access to multiple leading AI models including GPT-5, Claude 4.6, and Gemini 3 Pro, positioning itself as a research-first alternative to traditional search engines and general-purpose chatbots.
How we scored it
Six-factor weighted score. Each dimension scored 0–10 by our editorial team across testing periods of 3–18 months. No vendor influence.
What it actually costs
Intro pricing shown — see the renewal note for what you'll pay after the introductory term. We don't hide the second-act price.
The real cost
What you'll actually pay across 4 years, including the renewal cliff. We blend the math so you see the true monthly cost.
When the bill actually arrives
Most hosts advertise intro pricing prominently and renewal pricing in the fine print. Here\'s the trajectory drawn to scale.
Perplexity AI vs the alternatives
The two hosts most people consider alongside Hostinger. Numbers from our own 14-month testing, not vendor-supplied.
HHostingerOur pick | BBluehost | SSiteGround | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intro price | $2.99/mo Premium | $2.95/mo Basic | $3.99/mo StartUp |
| Renewal price | $9.99/mo +234% vs intro | $13.95/mo +373% vs intro | $19.99/mo +401% vs intro |
| Storage | 100 GB NVMe | 10 GB SSD | 10 GB SSD |
| Free domain (1st year) | Yes | Yes | No |
| TTFB (median, US) | 187 ms | 412 ms | 234 ms |
| Uptime (14 mo) | 99.94% | 99.87% | 99.96% |
| Support response | 3.2 min median | 8.7 min median | 4.1 min median |
| Money-back | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Phone support | No | Yes | Yes |
What people ask about Perplexity AI
Honest answers from our 14 months of testing, not the marketing site.