How we separated the picks

The useful distinction is not which tool can produce an answer, but which one supports the work you actually need: understanding a source, comparing models, or revising your own draft. Always follow course rules and verify output.

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Best overall AI sidebar

Sider

Broad model access and an unusually large public rating sample.

4.9 / 55,000,000 usersLimited free use; paid plans and in-app purchases
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QuestionAI icon
Best homework-first interface

QuestionAI

Puts step-by-step question assistance at the center.

4.8 / 5100,000 usersFree installation with plan-based limits
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Monica icon
Best expansive toolbox

Monica

The most ambitious mix of chat, search, translation, media, and agents.

4.9 / 53,000,000 usersLimited free use; paid Premium plan and in-app purchases
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Merlin icon
Best keyboard-first option

Merlin

Quick invocation with page, file, and video context.

4.8 / 5900,000 usersFree limited access; paid plans and in-app purchases
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What to check before installing

  1. Check whether your institution allows the intended use.
  2. Verify citations and reasoning against primary sources.
  3. Do not upload protected student, employer, or research data.

Sources

Rankings use current store records, feature coverage, and first-party developer documentation.

  1. Chrome Web Store listing

    Store metrics, feature description, and data categories.

  2. Chrome Web Store listing

    Store facts and privacy categories.

  3. Chrome Web Store listing

    Store facts, feature claims, and privacy categories.

  4. Chrome Web Store listing

    Store facts, features, and privacy disclosures.