The best free AI tools in 2026: 12 tools you can use without paying
Chatbots, images, video, studying, translation and music: the best artificial intelligence tools with a free plan, and the limits of each.
You don’t need to spend money to make the most of artificial intelligence. These are the best tools with a free plan, sorted by what you need.
Free plans change often and usually have daily limits. Here’s what matters most as of November 2026.
Chatbots: for asking, writing and summarizing
1. ChatGPT
The most complete. The free plan includes chat, web search, file uploads and a few images a day. Limit: once you run out of messages on the most powerful model, it switches to a simpler one.
2. Gemini
Ideal if you use Android or Google services. For free you can chat, create images, edit photos and use voice. Limit: the most advanced features, like Veo video, are limited or paid.
3. Claude
The best for natural-sounding writing and long documents. Limit: the number of free messages is smaller than with the other two.
4. Microsoft Copilot
Free with a Microsoft account and built into Windows and Edge. Handy for quick searches.
Which one to choose? See ChatGPT vs Gemini vs Claude.
For studying
5. NotebookLM
Upload your notes and create summaries, flashcards, quizzes and podcasts from them. Probably the best free study tool. Full NotebookLM guide.
Images and design
6. Canva
Templates, background removal and AI image creation. Many AI features are paid, but the free plan goes a long way.
7. Your phone’s gallery
Google Photos and many phone galleries let you remove objects and enhance photos with AI without installing anything. More options in editing photos with AI.
Video
8. Google Playground and Flow
With a Google account you can try video and game creation within limits. See Google Playground and our comparison of AI video generators.
9. CapCut
The mobile video editor includes auto-captions, background removal and AI effects. Some features are paid.
Languages and text
10. DeepL
Many professionals’ favorite translator for its natural results. The free plan limits characters and documents.
Audio and music
11. Suno
Creates full songs with lyrics and vocals. Limit: the free plan doesn’t allow commercial use. We explain it in making music with AI.
12. ElevenLabs
Very realistic voices for narrating text. Limit: small monthly credits and no commercial license on the free plan. More in AI voices.
Three tips for free plans
- Mix and match: if you run out of messages in one, carry on in another.
- Write good prompts so you don’t waste messages on useless answers. Review how to write good prompts.
- “Free” isn’t “no cost”: check privacy settings and don’t upload sensitive personal data. Some tools use your conversations to train their models unless you opt out.
