Adrian’s Arena: Why I (Mostly) Switched from Google Search to Perplexity AI

TL;DR:

• Perplexity AI is an AI-powered answer engine offering direct answers, real-time updates, and source transparency compared to Google’s link-based results.
• Key features include conversational queries, advanced AI models, file uploads, and an ad-free interface for productivity and research.
• The comparison of Perplexity vs Google highlights Perplexity’s edge in in-depth research and precision, while Google remains strong in location-based searches and ecosystem integration.
• Perplexity Pro offers premium features like unlimited searches, image generation, and advanced model selection, making it ideal for professionals and researchers.

Perplexity AI vs Google Search: Why? And Why Now?

As a tech enthusiast and guest blogger at AIinAsia.com, I am constantly exploring tools that elevate productivity and enhance research capabilities. Recently, I made the bold switch from Google Search to Perplexity AI, a decision that has fundamentally changed how I search, learn, and create. This article dives into why I made this switch, compares Perplexity vs Google, and provides actionable tips to maximise your experience with Perplexity AI.

Understanding Perplexity AI: A New Way to Search

Perplexity AI is more than just a search engine; it is an AI-powered answer engine designed to provide concise, accurate, and contextual information. Unlike traditional search engines like Google, which rely on indexing and ranking pages, Perplexity leverages large language models to synthesise answers, making it ideal for deep research and quick fact-checking.

Here are the key features that set Perplexity AI apart:

1. Direct Answers: Unlike Google’s search results, which often require you to sift through multiple links, Perplexity delivers the exact information you need.
2. Real-Time Updates: Perplexity’s real-time web search ensures the latest information is always at your fingertips.
3. Conversational Capabilities: You can ask follow-up questions naturally, building on previous queries without starting anew.
4. Source Transparency: Every answer includes citations, making it easy to verify the information.

Perplexity vs Google Search: How Do They Compare?

While Google Search has been the gold standard for internet searches, Perplexity AI introduces a fresh, efficient approach to retrieving and processing information. Here’s a head-to-head comparison:

While Google excels in location-based searches and its suite of integrated tools (e.g., Maps, Gmail, Drive), Perplexity AI stands out for deep research, precise answers, and time efficiency.

Why I Made the Switch

After weeks of using Perplexity AI, the benefits became clear:

1. Time Efficiency: Perplexity’s direct answers save me hours I would otherwise spend scrolling through irrelevant search results.
2. Ad-Free Interface: The distraction-free design allows me to focus entirely on the content.
3. Comprehensive Answers: Compared to Google, Perplexity often provides more detailed and accurate responses.
4. Enhanced Productivity: The ability to ask follow-up questions in a conversational style streamlines my research process.

While Google’s ecosystem remains invaluable for specific use cases, Perplexity AI has become my go-to tool for in-depth research and fact-checking.

Now don’t get me wrong, Google Search still has some key uses. For example:

• Instant information that usually doesn’t change: if I’m just quickly searching for instant info (e.g., an address or a phone number), I don’t want to wait for Perplexity to run a full query – just give me the info already!
• Google ecosystem: although I’ve changed my Chrome browser to default search with Perplexity, the Google ecosystem is so well connected that sometimes I want to skim reviews, see on a map, or skim the meta description of other pages. Again, speed is the name of the game here.

Best Practices for Perplexity AI

Maximising Perplexity AI’s potential involves leveraging its features and crafting effective prompts. Here’s how you can make the most of this innovative tool:

1. Use the “Focus” Feature

Narrow your search results by selecting specific content types, such as academic papers, videos, or social media insights.

• Example: Searching for “climate change statistics” in academic mode yields peer-reviewed studies rather than general articles.

2. Ask Follow-Up Questions

Dive deeper into topics without starting a new query.

• Example: Start with “What are the latest trends in AI ethics?” and follow up with “How does this impact Southeast Asia’s tech industry?”

3. Organise Research with Collections

Save and categorise your queries into themed collections for easy reference.

• Example: Create a collection titled “AI in Education” to gather all related insights for an upcoming blog post.

4. Analyse Files

Upload PDFs (free plan) or PDFs and images (Pro plan) for instant analysis.

• Example: Upload a 50-page policy document and use the prompt, “Summarise key points related to data privacy.”

5. Experiment with Prompts

Crafting creative prompts unlocks Perplexity’s full potential. Here are some examples:

• Research: “List three successful renewable energy projects in Asia, with links to supporting articles.”
• Visuals: “Generate a useful description so that a generative AI can create an image of a futuristic underwater city with brass buildings.”
• Summaries: “Explain the economic impact of AI in 100 words.”

6. Leverage AI Model Selection

For Pro users, the ability to choose models like GPT-4 or Claude 3 adds precision to specific tasks.

• Example: Use GPT-4 for creative writing tasks, while Claude 3 is ideal for summarisation.

Free vs. Paid Plans: What’s the Difference?

Perplexity AI offers a free plan and a Pro version ($20/month or $200/year). Here’s a breakdown:

Free Plan:

• Unlimited quick searches
• 5 Pro searches per day (resets every 4 hours)
• PDF uploads for analysis
• Access to the standard Perplexity AI model

Pro Plan:

• Unlimited Pro searches
• Advanced AI models (GPT-4, Claude 3, and more)
• Unlimited file uploads (PDFs, images, etc.)
• Longer conversations and priority access to new features
• API access for developers

For casual users, the free plan suffices. For professionals or researchers, the Pro plan’s advanced features are well worth the investment.

Exploring Perplexity’s Image Generation Feature

Perplexity Pro includes an AI-driven image generation tool that adds a visual dimension to your research. Here’s how it works:

1. Enter a descriptive query, such as “Generate a useful description so that a generative AI can create an image of a serene Japanese garden.”
2. Choose a style: Painting, Photograph, Illustration, or Diagram.
3. Select an AI model like DALLE 3 or Stable Diffusion XL for tailored results.
4. Refine the prompt for even greater detail.

This feature is ideal for content creators and researchers looking to visually enhance their work. For instance, I used it to generate visuals for a blog post on AI’s role in urban development.

Conclusion: Perplexity vs Google—The Verdict

Switching from Google to Perplexity AI has been a transformative experience. While Google remains a strong player for general searches and location-based queries, Perplexity AI offers unparalleled advantages for in-depth research, precise answers, and enhanced productivity. Its conversational capabilities, real-time updates, and ad-free interface make it a compelling alternative.

Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, Perplexity AI’s innovative approach to search can redefine how you gather and process information. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making the switch too.

Join the Conversation

What do you think about the Perplexity AI vs Google Search debate? Have you tried Perplexity AI, or do you think Google still reigns supreme? Or perhaps you prefer SearchGPT by Open AI? Share your experiences and thoughts below—how do you see the future of search evolving?

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• Perplexity Introduces Pages: The Newest AI Article Generator
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• Or try the free version of Perplexity by tapping here.