01.AI vs Perplexity
Which AI AI Agents tool is better in 2026?
01.AI
Founded by Kai-Fu Lee — maker of the Yi model family.
Perplexity
The answer engine — AI search with real-time citations.
Side-by-side
| 01.AI | Perplexity | |
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | Founded by Kai-Fu Lee — maker of the Yi model family. | The answer engine — AI search with real-time citations. |
| Founded | 2023 | 2022 |
| HQ | Beijing, CN | San Francisco, US |
| Employees | 201-500 | 51-200 |
| Total funding | $1B | $500M |
| Latest round | Series A · Nov 6, 2023 | Series C · Dec 18, 2024 |
| Valuation | — | — |
| Pricing | Freemium | Freemium · From $20/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Categories |
🟢 Strengths of 01.AI
- Has raised more capital ($1B vs $500M)
- Newer company (2023)
🔵 Strengths of Perplexity
- More mature (2022)
Which should you choose?
Choose 01.AI if price matters most — it starts at Freemium, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Agents tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose 01.AI if you want the most established option — it has raised $1B, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
Frequently asked questions
01.AI vs Perplexity — which is better?
It depends on your priority. 01.AI has raised more capital and is the more established option; Perplexity has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is 01.AI cheaper than Perplexity?
Yes — 01.AI starts at Freemium, while Perplexity starts at Freemium · From $20/mo.
Do 01.AI and Perplexity offer free plans?
01.AI: Paid only. Perplexity: Paid only.
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