{"id":14749,"date":"2025-11-18T15:45:37","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T15:45:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/"},"modified":"2025-11-18T15:45:37","modified_gmt":"2025-11-18T15:45:37","slug":"i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/","title":{"rendered":"I Tested 11 AI Search Engines: Only These 4 Made the Cut"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Ask the same question in 11 AI search engines, and you\u2019ll get 11 different answers.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes wildly different.<\/p>\n<p>Some engines focus on visuals and shoppable results. Others go deep into research. A few just try to get you an answer, fast.<\/p>\n<p>Each platform prioritizes and presents it differently.<\/p>\n<p>And those differences matter.<\/p>\n<p>Not just for users, but for brands trying to get discovered in AI search.<\/p>\n<p>So, I tested popular and lesser-known AI engines on accuracy, depth, user experience, and other factors.<\/p>\n<p>Only four made the cut.<\/p>\n<p>In this guide, you\u2019ll learn which AI search engines came out on top, including pros, cons, and pricing. I\u2019ll also share which engines didn\u2019t make my list, and why.<\/p>\n<p>Along the way, you\u2019ll get a few tips on using these insights to improve your AI visibility.<\/p>\n<p>Start with a quick overview of my findings below. Or jump straight to the #1 AI search engine on my list: <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-search-engines#chatgpt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ChatGPT<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#What_Are_the_Best_AI_Search_Engines\" >What Are the Best AI Search Engines?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#How_I_Tested_11_AI_Search_Engines\" >How I Tested 11 AI Search Engines<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#1_ChatGPT\" >1. ChatGPT<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#What_ChatGPT_Does_Well\" >What ChatGPT Does Well<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Where_ChatGPT_Falls_Short\" >Where ChatGPT Falls Short<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Pricing\" >Pricing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#2_Google_AI_Mode\" >2. Google AI Mode<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#What_AI_Mode_Does_Well\" >What AI Mode Does Well<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Where_AI_Mode_Falls_Short\" >Where AI Mode Falls Short<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Pricing-2\" >Pricing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#3_Sigma_Chat_Formerly_Bagoodex\" >3. Sigma Chat (Formerly Bagoodex)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#What_Sigma_Chat_Does_Well\" >What Sigma Chat Does Well<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Where_Sigma_Chat_Falls_Short\" >Where Sigma Chat Falls Short<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Pricing-3\" >Pricing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#4_Microsoft_Copilot\" >4. Microsoft Copilot<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#What_Microsoft_Copilot_Does_Well\" >What Microsoft Copilot Does Well<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Where_Microsoft_Copilot_Falls_Short\" >Where Microsoft Copilot Falls Short<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Pricing-4\" >Pricing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#AI_Search_Engines_That_Didnt_Make_the_Cut_and_Why\" >AI Search Engines That Didn\u2019t Make the Cut (and Why)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Claude\" >Claude<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Perplexity\" >Perplexity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Brave\" >Brave<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Andi\" >Andi<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#Arc\" >Arc<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#You\" >You<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/18\/i-tested-11-ai-search-engines-only-these-4-made-the-cut\/#What_This_Means_for_Your_AI_Search_Visibility\" >What This Means for Your AI Search Visibility<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Best_AI_Search_Engines\"><\/span>What Are the Best AI Search Engines?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">Tool<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Best for<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Pros<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Cons<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Price<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Tool\">ChatGPT<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Best for\">Comprehensive research and shoppable product comparisons<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Pros\">Visual layout with tables and images; remembers context across follow-ups; direct purchase links<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Cons\">Overwhelming results for broad queries; accuracy issues; overly agreeable<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Price\">Free or $20+\/month<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Tool\">Google AI Mode<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Best for\">Quick product searches with real buyer reviews<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Pros\">Fast product results with pricing and reviews; integrates Google ecosystem<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Cons\">Vague on informational queries; no comparison tables; unavailable in some regions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Price\">Free<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Tool\">Sigma Chat (Formerly Bagoodex)<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Best for\">Research deep dives that build on previous questions<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Pros\">Strong conversational memory; suggests follow-up questions; content creation prompts<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Cons\">Weak product presentation; no pricing or buy links; poor visuals<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Price\">Free or $10+\/month<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"Tool\">Microsoft Copilot<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Best for\">Fast answers in clean, skimmable formats<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Pros\">Clean categorization; fast responses; easy to skim<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Cons\">Surface-level depth; no product links; weak for shopping<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Price\">Free<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_I_Tested_11_AI_Search_Engines\"><\/span>How I Tested 11 AI Search Engines<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>To keep things consistent, I ran the same set of prompts across 11 AI search tools.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> For this article, I defined \u201cAI search engine\u201d as any generative AI platform that can understand queries, pull information from sources, and deliver answers in natural language.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This included big names like ChatGPT, AI Mode, and Perplexity.<\/p>\n<p>And newer players like Arc, Andi, and Sigma Chat.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Andi Search \u2013 How long do running shoes last\" alt=\"Andi Search \u2013 How long do running shoes last\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.64857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/andisearch-how-long-do-running-shoes-last.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>I focused on one topic (running shoes) and tested a range of prompts across different search intents.<\/p>\n<p>This showed how well each engine handled the full customer journey, from research to shopping.<\/p>\n<p>This included:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>\u201cBest running shoes\u201d:<\/strong> Assesses top-level recommendations and how each engine handles broad prompts<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cBest running shoes for beginner marathon training\u201d:<\/strong> Evaluates personalization and context handling as the prompt narrows<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cHow long do running shoes last?\u201d:<\/strong> Gauges accuracy on general product knowledge and durability expectations<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cOf the trainers you\u2019ve recommended, which ones will last the longest?\u201d:<\/strong> Tests the accuracy of product details and the engine\u2019s ability to remember details from previous prompts<\/li>\n<li><strong>\u201cCan I wear any of these running shoes recommended for hiking?\u201d:<\/strong> Assesses how each AI handles reasoning, real-world nuance, and potential safety considerations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Shoes for hiking\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Shoes for hiking\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-shoes-for-hiking.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>I evaluated each tool on five factors:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Accuracy:<\/strong> Did it understand the intent and get the facts right?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Depth:<\/strong> Did it add helpful context or just summarize existing content?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transparency:<\/strong> Did it credit or link to its sources?<\/li>\n<li><strong>User experience:<\/strong> Was the output fast, skimmable, and well-organized?<\/li>\n<li><strong>Adaptability:<\/strong> Could it handle follow-up questions naturally or refine vague prompts?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>After testing all 11 AI search engines, these four stood out as the best for different reasons.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_ChatGPT\"><\/span>1. ChatGPT<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Best for comprehensive research and shoppable product comparisons<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p><a title=\"ChatGPT\" href=\"https:\/\/chatgpt.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ChatGPT<\/a> came out on top overall.<\/p>\n<p>It delivered the best balance of accuracy, organization, and depth. Plus, it showed an \u201cunderstanding\u201d of <a title=\"Search Intent and SEO: How to Optimize for User Goals\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/search-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search intent<\/a> and included helpful visuals.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_ChatGPT_Does_Well\"><\/span>What ChatGPT Does Well<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>ChatGPT provides detailed, well-formatted answers.<\/p>\n<p>This is true whether you\u2019re comparing products, researching topics, or looking for a step-by-step tutorial.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2314285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It also remembers context across follow-up questions.<\/p>\n<p>I started with a broad prompt and added specifics as the conversation progressed. ChatGPT remembered key details without making me repeat myself.<\/p>\n<p>For shopping queries, the visual presentation stood out.<\/p>\n<p>When I searched for running shoes, for example, ChatGPT returned products with images, prices, reviews, and short descriptions.<\/p>\n<p>It also included links to retailers and external articles. This made verifying product details and purchasing easy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Links to external articles\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Links to external articles\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1385714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-links-to-external-articles.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The summary tables were particularly useful.<\/p>\n<p>After inquiring about shoe lifespan, ChatGPT delivered a clean comparison table with products and their expected mileage.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Summary Table \u2013 Running shoes\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Summary Table \u2013 Running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-summary-table-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>For brands:<\/strong> ChatGPT\u2019s visual layout isn\u2019t just useful for shoppers. If you\u2019re trying to get your brand referenced by AI search engines, it also reveals what these models prioritize. Use tables, clear specs, and organized categories on your product pages to help both shoppers and AI find your information faster.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>ChatGPT is also evolving quickly.<\/p>\n<p>Features like <a title=\"ChatGPT Shopping: \" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/chatgpt-shopping-optimization\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Instant Checkout<\/a> (currently limited to select Etsy sellers in the United States) let users complete purchases directly inside the chat.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013  Full shoping destination\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Full shoping destination\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/10\/chatgpt-full-shoping-destination.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Great for shoppers \u2014 and even greater for the brands featured in ChatGPT\u2019s recommendations.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_ChatGPT_Falls_Short\"><\/span>Where ChatGPT Falls Short<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>When I tested ChatGPT, I got what most people want from AI search: answers that feel confident and complete.<\/p>\n<p>But not every response was perfect.<\/p>\n<p>Broad prompts, such as \u201cBest running shoes,\u201d resulted in lengthy lists of brands, product categories, and features.<\/p>\n<p>The information took real effort to digest.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Top picks by category \u2013 Running shoes\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Top picks by category \u2013 Running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3471428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-top-picks-by-category-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Specific prompts worked much better.<\/p>\n<p>I also noticed minor inaccuracies in some instances, like when I asked about shoe lifespan.<\/p>\n<p>After fact-checking the replies, some details didn\u2019t match the manufacturer\u2019s specifications.<\/p>\n<p>For example, ChatGPT said the Brooks Ghost running shoe has a lifespan of 450 to 500 miles. But the actual range is 300 to 500 miles.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 The longest lasting trainers\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 The longest lasting trainers\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0457142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-the-longest-lasting-trainers.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This also highlights a larger problem.<\/p>\n<p>ChatGPT pulls information from multiple sources, such as blog posts and brand sites.<\/p>\n<p>But it also relies on forums like Quora and Reddit, where users share personal experiences.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Reddit \u2013 Relies on forums\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Relies on forums\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.47230769230769\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/reddit-relies-on-forums.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It then aggregates the information into its responses. This can lead to inaccurate and misleading information.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>For brands:<\/strong> Provide clear answers to common user questions on your site. Otherwise, AI search engines may turn to other, potentially inaccurate sources for this information. Add tables with specifications, be explicit about ranges and measurements, and <a title=\"Schema Markup: What It Is and Why It Matters\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/schema-markup-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">use structured data<\/a> so AI can extract and cite your product information correctly.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>ChatGPT also tends to be overly agreeable.<\/p>\n<p>Whatever you prompt, ChatGPT will lean toward flattery and agreement \u2014 even when it involves safety.<\/p>\n<p>For example, when I asked, \u201cCan I wear any of these running shoes recommended for hiking?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>ChatGPT\u2019s response was:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>\u201cGood question \ud83d\udc4d \u2014 you can hike in road running shoes, but whether it\u2019s a good idea depends on the terrain and how far you\u2019re going.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Not the worst.<\/p>\n<p>But not as good as other AI search engines in this aspect, like AI Mode, which was more cautious.<\/p>\n<p>AI Mode said:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>\u201cIt is not recommended to use the road running shoes previously mentioned for hiking\u2026they lack the key features that provide the necessary grip, protection, and stability for off-road trails. Using them for hiking could lead to injury.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Overall, ChatGPT is fast, detailed, and helpful.<\/p>\n<p>But it can be too generous with information \u2014 and too polite to push back.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pricing\"><\/span>Pricing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Pricing\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Pricing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/chatgpt-pricing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>ChatGPT offers three plans based on your needs.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> Limited access to some features<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plus:<\/strong> $20\/month<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pro:<\/strong> $200\/month for extended features<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Google Gemini vs. ChatGPT: Which AI Chatbot Is Better?\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/gemini-vs-chatgpt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Gemini vs. ChatGPT: Which AI Chatbot Is Better?<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Google_AI_Mode\"><\/span>2. Google AI Mode<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Best for quick product searches with real buyer reviews<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.70857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-ai-mode-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p><a title=\"Google AI Mode - a new way to search, whatever\u2019s on your mind\" href=\"https:\/\/search.google\/ways-to-search\/ai-mode\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google\u2019s AI Mode<\/a> is built for speed.<\/p>\n<p>It pulls product listings, prices, and reviews directly into the search interface. This makes it ideal for shoppers who want to quickly compare products before purchasing.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_AI_Mode_Does_Well\"><\/span>What AI Mode Does Well<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI Mode shines when you have clear buying intent.<\/p>\n<p>It instantly surfaces product options with images, prices, star ratings, and quick links to retailers. And it\u2019s all in a clean, scrollable layout.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0128571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-ai-mode-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When I searched \u201cbest running shoes,\u201d it showed a curated carousel of options with price comparisons across multiple sites.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Open drop down on the right\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Open drop down on the right\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.63142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-ai-mode-open-drop-down-on-the-right.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>I especially liked how it paired Google Reviews with its recommendations \u2014 a small detail that makes decision-making faster and builds trust.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Google reviews &amp; recommendations\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Google reviews &amp; recommendations\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-ai-mode-google-reviews-and-recommendations.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>For me, that worked perfectly.<\/p>\n<p>Getting straight to the products moved me faster toward a decision.<\/p>\n<p>But some users may prefer more background or context for researching and weighing options. ChatGPT\u2019s research-style answers still win in this regard.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>For brands:<\/strong> AI Mode pulls heavily from <a title=\"How to Get More Google Reviews: Proven Strategies\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/get-more-google-reviews\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Reviews<\/a> and structured product data. Focus on getting detailed, positive reviews and keeping your product schema markup up to date. These signals can influence whether your products appear in AI-generated results.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_AI_Mode_Falls_Short\"><\/span>Where AI Mode Falls Short<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI Mode is not yet available in all countries, although it\u2019s rolling out quickly.<\/p>\n<p>And unlike ChatGPT, it didn\u2019t provide any comparison tables for any of my prompts. Just products and bullet points.<\/p>\n<p>This meant more scrolling and clicking to find and digest the information.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Bullet points\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Bullet points\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0028571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-ai-mode-bullet-points.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This was evident when I asked which of the recommended shoes would last the longest.<\/p>\n<p>AI Mode\u2019s response was vague and unhelpful. It said the Brooks Ghost shoe was \u201cexceptionally long-lasting.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It didn\u2019t provide any of the specifics that would make me want to purchase this shoe. Like mileage range and how it differed between the options.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Listings on the left\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Listings on the left\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.97\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/google-ai-mode-listings-on-the-left.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you\u2019re early in the evaluation phase, AI Mode can feel limiting.<\/p>\n<p>But it delivers when you want a shortlist of top contenders.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pricing-2\"><\/span>Pricing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI Mode is available for free within Google Search, depending on your region.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"LLM Seeding: A Strategy to Get Mentioned and Cited by LLMs\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/llm-seeding\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LLM Seeding: A Strategy to Get Mentioned and Cited by LLMs<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Sigma_Chat_Formerly_Bagoodex\"><\/span>3. Sigma Chat (Formerly Bagoodex)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Best for research deep dives that build on previous questions<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.60428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p><a title=\"AI Chat\" href=\"https:\/\/app.sigmabrowser.com\/chat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sigma Chat<\/a>\u2019s iterative search and in-depth replies are excellent if you love to research.<\/p>\n<p>Ask a question, get an answer, then drill deeper into related topics \u2014 and it remembers the full thread.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Bagoodex launched in 2024 and has since rebranded as Sigma Chat. For this review, I tested it against the standard modes of other tools. ChatGPT\u2019s Thinking mode and Perplexity\u2019s Research mode are designed for deep research and may perform differently.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Sigma_Chat_Does_Well\"><\/span>What Sigma Chat Does Well<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sigma Chat stood out for its ability to build on previous context.<\/p>\n<p>When I asked follow-up questions, it remembered what I\u2019d already searched and adjusted its answers accordingly.<\/p>\n<p>No need to repeat myself or reframe the entire query.<\/p>\n<p>For example, after I asked which of the recommended shoes would last the longest, it specifically referenced \u201cmarathons.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>(Even though I hadn\u2019t mentioned this criterion again after the initial prompt.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Build on previous context\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Build on previous context\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.60285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-build-on-previous-context.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Sigma Chat\u2019s follow-up suggestions also stood out for their potential to aid deep research.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of ending with one answer, it nudged me toward related questions I hadn\u2019t considered:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Beginner running shoes fitting<\/li>\n<li>Marathon training schedule<\/li>\n<li>Foot pronation assessment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Follow ups\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Follow upsv\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.43857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-follow-ups.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Sigma Chat anticipates knowledge gaps and identifies adjacent topics worth exploring.<\/p>\n<p>This makes it particularly helpful for any kind of research, whether you\u2019re comparing products, building <a title=\"How to Create a Content Brief: A Step-by-Step Guide (+ Templates)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/content-briefs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content outlines<\/a>, or researching niches.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Foot pronation\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Foot pronation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-foot-pronation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>For brands:<\/strong> Sigma Chat rewards depth and <a title=\"Topic Clusters 101: How to Level Up Your SEO (with Examples)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/topic-clusters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">topic clustering<\/a>. To increase visibility in AI tools like this, build content hubs around your main topics \u2014 link related pages together and cover every sub-question your audience might ask. The more complete your coverage, the easier it is for AI to surface your site in deep research queries.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Another interesting feature of this AI search engine?<\/p>\n<p>It suggests prompts tailored to <a title=\"Content Writing 101: How to Create High-Quality Content\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/content\/writing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content creation<\/a>. This is especially helpful if you\u2019re using it for marketing purposes.<\/p>\n<p>After providing search results for the best running shoes for a marathon, it offered unexpected options like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\u201cWrite a blog post about this topic\u201d<\/li>\n<li>\u201cCreate an image on this topic\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>I tested the blog prompt, and it generated a quick draft titled \u201cMarathon Training on a Budget: Choosing Durable Running Shoes.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>It wasn\u2019t something you\u2019d publish as-is, but it was a decent starting point.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re prone to writer\u2019s block or need to quickly draft comparison content around competitor products, it\u2019s a particularly helpful feature.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Blog prompt\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Blog prompt\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.68571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-blog-prompt.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>From there, it suggested additional prompts like \u201cAdd a call to action\u201d and \u201cShorten for social media.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>This makes it easy for marketers to generate content for multiple platforms at once.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Suggested additional prompts\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Suggested additional prompts\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.40428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-suggested-additional-prompts.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"How to Use AI for Writing Exceptional Content\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-for-writing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Use AI for Writing Exceptional Content<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_Sigma_Chat_Falls_Short\"><\/span>Where Sigma Chat Falls Short<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sigma Chat\u2019s presentation still needs work.<\/p>\n<p>When I searched \u201cbest running shoes,\u201d it opened with generic photos pulled from listicles.<\/p>\n<p>This is a wasted use of prime real estate \u2014 they could\u2019ve shown real products or reviews to provide more value.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>There are also no pricing details, reviews, or direct purchasing links.<\/p>\n<p>But Sigma Chat does cite its sources.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, it cited the same comparison article multiple times. (Helpful for that site\u2019s traffic, not so helpful for someone ready to purchase.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Cite sources\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Cite sources\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.38\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-cite-its-sources.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Unless Sigma Chat improves its commercial functionality, it\u2019s unlikely shoppers will use it.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, it might carve out a niche for itself as a deep research tool.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pricing-3\"><\/span>Pricing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Pricing\" alt=\"Sigma Chat \u2013 Pricing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.69285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/sigma-chat-pricing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Sigma Chat offers a few plans with varying access and features:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> Basic search and chat capabilities<\/li>\n<li><strong>SigmaChat Plus:<\/strong> $10\/month for increased access<\/li>\n<li><strong>SigmaChat Pro:<\/strong> $75\/month for unlimited access<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"6 Awesome AI SEO Tools We Love Using\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">6 Awesome AI SEO Tools We Love Using<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Microsoft_Copilot\"><\/span>4. Microsoft Copilot<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Best for fast answers in clean, skimmable formats<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Microsoft Copilot \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Microsoft Copilot \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.54428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/microsoft-copilot-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Microsoft Copilot has the cleanest layout of any AI search engine I tested.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s fast, structured, and organized. Perfect for people who want distraction-free takeaways.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Microsoft_Copilot_Does_Well\"><\/span>What Microsoft Copilot Does Well<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>When you ask <a title=\"Microsoft Copilot\" href=\"https:\/\/copilot.microsoft.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Copilot<\/a> a question, it responds instantly with skimmable categories, bullet points, and emojis.<\/p>\n<p>For example, when I searched \u201cbest running shoes,\u201d it broke recommendations into helpful categories:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\u201cBest overall\u201d<\/li>\n<li>\u201cBest stability shoe\u201d<\/li>\n<li>\u201cBest daily trainer\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.93142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/copilot-microsoft-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When I narrowed the query to \u201cbest running shoes for beginner marathon training,\u201d Copilot further refined the results.<\/p>\n<p>It added details about who each shoe was best for, making the advice more actionable \u2014 a nice touch for a tool focused on clarity.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 More actionable advice\" alt=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 More actionable advice\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.98428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/copilot-microsoft-more-actionable-advice.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Even for informational queries like \u201ccan I wear these for hiking,\u201d Copilot delivered a simple breakdown.<\/p>\n<p>And added specific scenarios where running shoes would and wouldn\u2019t be ideal for hiking.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 Simple breakdown\" alt=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 Simple breakdown\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.04\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/copilot-microsoft-simple-breakdown.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When you want fast, direct answers without having to sift through a bunch of content, Copilot is a great option.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>For brands:<\/strong> Pay close attention to how Copilot structures its answers \u2014 categories, comparisons, \u201cbest for\u201d labels. Use similar formatting on your own pages to help AI tools extract and present your content more effectively.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_Microsoft_Copilot_Falls_Short\"><\/span>Where Microsoft Copilot Falls Short<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Copilot\u2019s polished format comes at a cost: depth and shoppability.<\/p>\n<p>Its responses are tidy but often too surface-level \u2014 especially for <a title=\"Commercial Intent Keywords: What They Are &amp; How to Rank\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/commercial-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">commercial searches<\/a> like \u201cbest running shoes.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>When I tested this prompt, it didn\u2019t link directly to any product pages or show pricing.<\/p>\n<p>So, I couldn\u2019t easily comparison shop, verify information, or choose a merchant and purchase immediately.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, it summarized content from other \u201cbest\u201d listicles and linked those sources.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 Don\u2019t link directly &amp; no pricing\" alt=\"Copilot Microsoft \u2013 Don't link directly &amp; no pricing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.57857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/copilot-microsoft-dont-link-directly-and-no-pricing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Like Sigma Chat, unless Microsoft improves its shoppability, it\u2019s unlikely consumers will use it for this purpose.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, Copilot works better as a light research tool \u2014 especially when you want fast information with minimal reading.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pricing-4\"><\/span>Pricing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Microsoft Copilot is free to use.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"5 LLM Visibility Tools to Track Your Brand in Search\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/llm-tracking-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">5 LLM Visibility Tools to Track Your Brand in Search<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"AI_Search_Engines_That_Didnt_Make_the_Cut_and_Why\"><\/span>AI Search Engines That Didn\u2019t Make the Cut (and Why)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>All of these AI search engines had their pros and cons.<\/p>\n<p>But overall, they fell short for different reasons.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Claude\"><\/span>Claude<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>I really liked Claude, but the output was very similar to ChatGPT.<\/p>\n<p>This isn\u2019t a problem, but I didn\u2019t want to list tools that were similar in functionality.<\/p>\n<p>I wanted to provide only the best.<\/p>\n<p>Compared to ChatGPT, Claude lacked product links and visuals:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Claude \u2013 Lacks product links &amp; visuals\" alt=\"Claude \u2013 Lacks product links &amp; visuals\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2985714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/claude-lacks-product-links-and-visuals.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The wall of text made the information challenging to process.<\/p>\n<p>I did like the categorization, but ChatGPT does this too \u2014 with tables that are easier to skim.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Perplexity\"><\/span>Perplexity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Like Claude, Perplexity came somewhat close to ChatGPT in overall performance.<\/p>\n<p>When asked a prompt with buying intent, it provided a short summary along with product images, pricing, and star ratings.<\/p>\n<p>No tables to help me quickly compare features and options, though.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Perplexity \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"Perplexity \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.59285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/perplexity-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The summary was also fairly generic.<\/p>\n<p>And didn\u2019t feel all that tailored to my prompt, even when I used the more specific \u201cmarathon\u201d wording.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Perplexity \u2013 Running shoes \u2013 Generic summary\" alt=\"Perplexity \u2013 Running shoes \u2013 Generic summary\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.79\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/perplexity-running-shoes-generic-summary.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Brave\"><\/span>Brave<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Brave, a privacy-focused AI search engine, felt too much like traditional search.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Brave \u2013 Best running shoes \u2013 Ask\" alt=\"Brave \u2013 Best running shoes \u2013 Ask\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/brave-best-running-shoes-ask.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It features long lists of articles without any clear hierarchy or comparison features.<\/p>\n<p>While this might be helpful for browsing links, it doesn\u2019t summarize much or help you make quick decisions.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Andi\"><\/span>Andi<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Andi, a minimal AI search tool, offered few results, sometimes just one (e.g., a single Reddit thread).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Andi Search \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"Andi Search \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.9128571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/andisearch-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>It\u2019s a bit like the \u201cI\u2019m Feeling Lucky\u201d button on Google. Simple to use but extremely limiting for in-depth research or shopping.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Arc\"><\/span>Arc<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Arc, a mobile- and browser-based AI search engine, requires a download to use.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Arc \u2013 Search\" alt=\"Arc \u2013 Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.64\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/arc-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This is inconvenient compared to browser-based AI search.<\/p>\n<p>When so many other options exist, it\u2019s hard to justify using this AI engine for this reason alone.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You\"><\/span>You<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You is a solid AI search engine that has been around for multiple years.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"You \u2013 Best running shoes\" alt=\"You \u2013 Best running shoes\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/11\/you-best-running-shoes.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But it was slow to respond and didn\u2019t link to products in commercial searches.<\/p>\n<p>Ultimately, I found it less useful than the other AI tools overall.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_This_Means_for_Your_AI_Search_Visibility\"><\/span>What This Means for Your AI Search Visibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After testing 11 AI search engines, one thing became clear.<\/p>\n<p>No matter how their formatting or preferences differ, the goal remains the same: to serve clear, credible, and well-structured content.<\/p>\n<p>If your pages do that \u2014 with comprehensive coverage, positive reviews, and clean markup \u2014 you\u2019ll be positioned to perform well across all AI search engines and LLMs.<\/p>\n<p>Want to make that happen?<\/p>\n<p>Our <a title=\"Generative Engine Optimization (GEO): How to Win in AI Search\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/generative-engine-optimization-geo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">generative engine optimization (GEO)<\/a> guide shows how to structure your site, earn more citations, and track your AI visibility.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-search-engines\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">I Tested 11 AI Search Engines: Only These 4 Made the Cut<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ask the same question in 11 AI search engines, and you\u2019ll get 11 different answers. Sometimes wildly different. Some engines focus on visuals and shoppable results. Others go deep into research. A few just try to get you an answer, fast. Each platform prioritizes and presents it differently. And those differences matter. Not just for users, but for brands trying to get discovered in AI search. So, I tested popular and lesser-known AI engines on accuracy, depth, user experience, and other factors. Only four made the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":14750,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14749","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/icon-note-gCjvpD-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/icon-note-gCjvpD-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/craig\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14749","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14749"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14749\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14750"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14749"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14749"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14749"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}