So you’re contemplating whether to drop $20 a month on ChatGPT Plus vs. just using the free version of ChatGPT.
It’s a dilemma. I get it.
A lot of people would rather stare at a clock for hours at gunpoint than cough up money for a digital product. I used to be one of them.
The good news? I’m here to save you and make up your mind for you.
Regardless of how incredible this guide will be, you can reference the official OpenAI pricing page for up-to-date information on exactly what is included with ChatGPT Plus vs. ChatGPT. The information in this post is from July 20, 2024.
Let’s break it down and see if it’s worth the splurge, or if you should just continue spending that $20/month on drugs, booze, hookers, and weapons.
Prefer listening? Play the podcast version below! If not, just keep reading.
What You Get with ChatGPT Plus That You Do NOT Get with ChatGPT
1. Early Access to New ChatGPT Features
Imagine getting your hands on the latest AI features before everyone else. That’s what ChatGPT Plus offers.
For example, Data Analyst (formerly Code Interpreter) was available first to ChatGPT Plus users. I was using it last year, getting my hands dirty in the process, while you were totally left out and weeping on the sidelines.
If you like being ahead of the curve, this one’s for you.
Also, if you create content related to AI like me, getting access to new features is a must, because it allows me precious procrastination time to create content for it.
2. Image Generation with DALL-E
Ever wanted to create AI images directly within ChatGPT? ChatGPT Plus users can do that with DALL-E.
DALL-E is a solid tool that can create nice images and has come a long way since its launch. However, I must say…Midjourney is definitely better in every way.
That’s not to say DALL-E is bad. It’s not. It just isn’t the go-to choice for designers, pros, and creatives. That trophy goes to Midjourney all day.
But, if you’re more on the casual end of image creation, then DALL-E should work just fine for you.
3. Create Your Own GPTs
I consider GPTs to be one of the most underrated tools, especially at work.
ChatGPT Plus users can create specialized chatbots, or GPTs, for all kinds of tasks.
You can also list your GPTs in OpenAI’s GPT Store. It’s kind of like Apple’s App Store. The biggest difference is you don’t get paid! Sure, OpenAI promised to pay GPT developers by Q1 2024, but that still hasn’t happened.
GPTs can speed up your workflow drastically, even if you only use them as quick prompt shortcuts. They’re also great educational resources, where you can find and use a GPT for nearly whatever topic you need help with.
4. The Memory Feature
ChatGPT can remember things about you between chats.
If that sounds creepy, that’s okay. It kind of is. But, it can also be really helpful if you don’t use it like a dummy. Plus, ChatGPT shows you exactly what it remembered about you, and you can delete whatever specific memory you’d like by going to this menu item:
“Settings” → “Personalization” → “Manage Memory”
There, you can delete what ChatGPT remembered about you. Delete the embarrassing stuff. Like the time you asked how to tie your shoes.
Privacy advocates might want to disable the feature, but for professional/work/school use, it can be a big timesaver. Have it remember project details, due dates, outlines, statistics, and more.
5. Access to GPT-4
Read that very carefully. I said “GPT-4”.
Although this isn’t a great benefit, it’s a plus (no pun intended) because you can leverage GPT-4 when you hit your chat limit of GPT-4o. Don’t worry, it takes a lot to hit the limit, but it’s a good feeling to know you have a GPT-4 cushion behind you.
What You Get in Greater Quantities with ChatGPT Plus vs. ChatGPT
1. Increased Message Limits for GPT-4o
Send up to five times as many messages to GPT-4o with ChatGPT Plus. This is one of the top benefits of subscribing.
Uninterrupted usage without visiting OpenAI’s penalty box for hours at a time is exactly what it sounds like a time-saver. And time is money.
2. Faster Response Times
Speed is a good thing. Get answers quicker with ChatGPT Plus.
Don’t get me wrong, the free version is also fast now, especially with GPT-4o Mini. But ChatGPT Plus is faster, which is good.
3. Larger Context Window
Send longer messages as a subscriber. Your messages can be up to four times the size allowed for free users. Perfect for detailed queries or incredibly long and cringe-worthy love letters that you need to get proofread.
I’ve never run into the issue of sending a message that’s too long – even in the free version. Maybe it’s just me, though.
4. Additional GPT Messages
Free users hit message caps with GPTs pretty quickly. ChatGPT Plus users? They can chat away for a long time before hitting the wall.
This is also one of my favorite advantages of ChatGPT Plus because I’m a heavy user of GPTs, especially the GPTs made by Run The Prompts.
5. Additional Access to Enhanced Features
Data analysis, file uploads, vision, and web browsing are all features you can get additional usage/chats with on ChatGPT Plus. If you use any of these features for work or school, having expanded access is a huge advantage.
What You Get in BOTH ChatGPT Plans (Free and Paid)
1. Data Model Training Control
Both free and ChatGPT Plus users can disable data model training for privacy control. It’s a common myth that you need to pay to turn this off. Free users can also do it! You don’t even have to log in to turn it off.
2. Unlimited Access to GPT-4o Mini
Everyone gets unlimited access to GPT-4o Mini. It’s not as good as GPT-4o, but it’s still powerful. And let me tell you, it’s fucking fast.
3. Platform Accessibility
Use ChatGPT on the web, iOS, and Android. Smooth functionality across all your devices, regardless of whether you pay.
Wrapping It Up – Should You Pay?
So, is ChatGPT Plus worth your $20? If you crave early access, faster responses, and more robust features, it’s a no-brainer. Otherwise, the free version still packs a punch.
At a high level, it all comes down to this: How much do you use ChatGPT? If it’s only a couple of times per week or less, then no, do not pay for it. If you use it every day, especially if you use it for school or work, then you should absolutely consider ChatGPT Plus.
Do you use ChatGPT Plus or the free version? What features do you find most valuable? Let me know in the comments section below.
Also, be sure to share this post with your local tech bros, crypto bros, Uber drivers, and imaginary friends.
Oh, and here’s a bonus. Check out our YouTube video on this topic! Just note that it was made before the release of GPT-4o Mini (early July 2024).
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