What is Claude?
Claude is an AI assistant built by Anthropic. You can use it on the web, as a desktop app for Mac and Windows, or on mobile. It is designed to be a thinking partner for tasks like writing, summarizing, analyzing data, and coding.
You start by typing a question or request in a chat window. You can also upload files and images for Claude to read and answer questions about. Projects keep related chats and reference files together, while Artifacts show longer outputs like documents or code in a side panel you can edit and share. Claude can search the web and connect to other apps.
Claude has a free plan with usage limits. Paid Pro and Max plans offer more usage and extra features like Claude Code and Claude Science. Team and Enterprise plans are available for organizations. The website does not detail every limit, so check the plans page for specifics.
Claude features
- Multi-platform access: Use Claude on the web, desktop, and mobile apps.
- File and image uploads: Ask questions about documents and images you upload.
- Projects: Keep related chats and reference files organized together.
- Artifacts: View and edit longer outputs like documents and code in a side panel.
- Web search and app connections: Search the internet and link Claude to other tools.
What you can do with Claude
- Write and edit documents, emails, or reports.
- Summarize long articles or meeting notes.
- Analyze data from uploaded spreadsheets or files.
- Debug or write code snippets for your projects.
- Brainstorm ideas for a new business or creative project.
How to get started with Claude
- Go to claude.ai and sign in with Google, Apple, email, or SSO.
- Start a new chat and type your question or request.
- Upload files or images if you need help with specific content.
Tips for better results with Claude
- Upload your reference files into a Project before starting, so Claude keeps your context and related chats organized in one place for consistent answers.
- Use Claude's Artifacts panel to generate and edit long documents or code, then share the output directly instead of copying text back and forth.
- Ask Claude to summarize a long article or meeting notes you upload, then follow up with targeted questions to dig into specific sections or data points.
- When coding or analyzing data, paste your exact error message or spreadsheet snippet into Claude, and request step-by-step debugging or analysis for clearer results.
Claude pricing
Claude has a free way to start, with paid plans for heavier use. Check claude.ai for current limits and prices.
What to check before you rely on Claude
- Check the plans page for current usage limits on the free tier, since the website does not state specific message or upload caps anywhere.
- Verify whether your data is used for training or stored long-term, as the privacy policy details are not summarized on the main pricing page.
- Confirm which file types and sizes Claude accepts for uploads, because the site lists file support but does not specify maximum dimensions or formats.
Who Claude is for
Claude suits professionals, students, developers and writers. If that is not you, the AI chatbots below may fit better.
Similar tools compared with Claude
| Tool | What it is | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Claude | AI assistant for writing, coding, and analysis | Freemium |
| SiChatApp | Free browser chat with multiple AI models | Freemium |
| ChatGPT | AI chatbot for chat, work, and creation | Freemium |
| Gemini | AI assistant for chat and tasks | Freemium |
| Kimi | AI assistant for coding and knowledge work | See website |
Claude FAQ
What is Claude and how does it work?
Claude is an AI assistant from Anthropic. You chat with it to get help with writing, analysis, coding, and more. It processes your text and files to give relevant answers and can produce longer outputs like documents.
How much does it cost to use?
There is a free plan with usage limits. Paid Pro starts at $17 per month with annual billing, and Max plans start at $100 per month. Team and Enterprise plans are also available.
What can I use Claude for?
You can use Claude to write and edit text, summarize documents, analyze data, brainstorm ideas, and write or debug code. It also supports file uploads and web search.
Can Claude connect to other apps?
Yes, Claude can connect to apps and tools. It works in Chrome and Microsoft 365, and there are integrations like Claude for Slack. The website lists more connectors and plugins.
Does Claude have a free plan and what does it include?
Yes, Claude has a free plan that costs $0 and includes chat on web, desktop, and mobile, web search, file creation, code running, memory across conversations, and connecting your apps and tools. Usage limits apply. For specific limits, check the plans page on the Claude website.
What devices and platforms can I use Claude on?
Claude is available on the web at claude.ai, as desktop apps for Mac and Windows, and as mobile apps. You can also use Claude in Chrome and Microsoft 365 with a Pro plan. The website does not mention other specific platforms, so check the download page for the latest options.
Can Claude connect to other apps and tools?
Yes, Claude can connect to other apps and tools. The free plan includes connecting your apps and tools, and there are specific integrations like Claude for Slack and Claude for Microsoft 365. For a full list of supported apps, check the Claude website's integrations or marketplace pages.