How much does access to good AI tools cost? Are there free/cheap optio

In addition to the ones already mentioned, Microsoft provides Copilot with Visual Studio and it can be installed in Visual Studio Code. If you use Visual Studio Code then Cursor is a fork of Visual Studio Code that has AI added. I use both Copilot and Cursor. Copilot usually is good enopugh but Cursor seems to be better.

Most of them can be used for free for a limited amount each month. 

AI tools are available at varying prices. ChatGPT and Gemini both have free versions you can try, and don't forget the upgrades that cost $20-30/month and are faster and more powerful. There are free ways to get started, but paid usually has better quality, speed, and flexibility.

The free one is ChatGPT, which I use the most. 

Top Free AI Tools

1. ChatGPT (OpenAI)

   • Use: Conversational AI, writing assistance, coding help.

   • Free Tier: Access to GPT-3.5; GPT-4 available via subscription.

   • Access: chat.openai.com

2. Google Gemini

   • Use: AI assistant, image generation, coding support.

   • Free Tier: Up to 100 daily image generations with the Nano Banana feature.

   • Access: Google AI Studio

3. Midjourney

   • Use: AI-powered image generation.

   • Free Tier: Limited number of images per month.

   • Access: midjourney.com

4. Runway ML

   • Use: Video editing, storytelling, and AI tools.

   • Free Tier: Basic features available; advanced features with subscription.

   • Access: runwayml.com

5. Google Cloud AI

   • Use: Translation, Speech-to-Text, Natural Language, Video Intelligence.

   • Free Tier: Monthly usage limits; no expiration but subject to change.

   • Access: Google Cloud AI

6. Claude by Anthropic

   • Use: Conversational AI, app building without code.

   • Free Tier: Access to basic features; advanced features with subscription.

   • Access: Claude AI

7. AIxploria

   • Use: Directory of over 5,000 free AI tools categorized by use case.

   • Access: AIxploria

8. Google AI Pro Plan for Students

   • Use: Access to Gemini 2.5 Pro, Veo 3, Deep Research, and 2TB Google Cloud storage.

   • Free Offer: Available to eligible college students in India until September 15, 2025.

   • Access: Google AI Pro Plan

Tips for Accessing Free AI Tools

• No Credit Card Required: Many tools offer free access without the need for payment information.

• Student Offers: Some platforms provide extended free access for students; verify eligibility.

• Freemium Models: Utilize basic features for free; consider subscriptions for advanced functionalities.