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ChatGPT vs NovelAI
ChatGPT scores higher in our catalogue (4.2 vs 3.7), but the right pick depends on what you need: NovelAI may suit you better on price and features.
| ChatGPT0 | NovelAI0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Editor score | 4.2 / 5 | 3.7 / 5 |
| Price | $20/mo | $10/mo |
| Price band | $10–20/mo | $10–20/mo |
| Free tier | Yes | No |
| Price detail | Free tier available; Plus $20/mo, billed monthly only — the annual discount applies to Business seats, not Plus. Voice mode included. | Tablet $10/mo, Scroll $15/mo, Opus $25/mo. Billed monthly only — there is no annual option to fold in. No free tier, just a limited trial. |
| Adult content | No adult mode | Optional mature mode |
| Voice | Live calls | No |
| Images | Yes | Yes |
| Video | Yes | No |
| Memory | Yes | Yes |
| Custom characters | Yes | Yes |
| Companion types | Any character | Any character |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android, Desktop | Web |
| Runs locally | No | No |
ChatGPT — our take
Not built as a companion, but its memory and voice mode make it a legitimate daily chat partner.
- Best general reasoning and writing
- Strong voice mode
- Memory across conversations
NovelAI — our take
For long-form narrative and illustration, not for daily companionship.
- Excellent long-context story model
- Strong anime image model
- No ads
ChatGPT vs NovelAI — common questions
Which is cheaper, ChatGPT or NovelAI?
NovelAI is the cheaper of the two at $10/mo, against $20/mo for ChatGPT.
Which one has a free tier?
Only ChatGPT has a free tier; NovelAI is paid-only.
Which remembers conversations better?
Both keep context across sessions. The practical difference is elsewhere: voice support differs between them.
Which handles adult content differently?
ChatGPT: No adult mode. NovelAI: Optional mature mode. This directory is SFW — we record whether a mature mode exists so you know before signing up, and we describe no explicit material.
Prices change. Confirm the current price and available plans on each site before subscribing. Affiliate disclosure.