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Z.ai

Free chat powered by GLM models

4.2 Chatbots
4.2 Very good 4.2

Bottom line: Z.ai is a strong chatbots tool, best known for agent mode for autonomous multi-step tasks. It has a free plan.

Strong coding performance for the price Top GLM models are gated behind paid tiers
Reviewed by Challenging Voice Editorial · Updated Jun 2026 How we rate
PricingFrom $10/mo
Free planYes
PlatformsAPI, Web
Best forChatbots
UpdatedJun 2026
Ask AI about Z.ai ChatGPT Claude Perplexity

Overview

Z.ai is the consumer chat assistant from Zhipu AI, running on its GLM model family with an agent mode for multi-step tasks. Registered users get free access to the lighter models, while the strongest GLM models need a paid plan or API access. The GLM weights are open and popular with developers.

Key features

Pricing

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Strong coding performance for the price
  • Open models give flexibility for self-hosting

Cons

  • Top GLM models are gated behind paid tiers
  • Data is processed on servers in China

How it compares

ToolRatingFreeFromBest known for
Z.ai (this tool)4.2Yes$10/moAgent mode for autonomous multi-step tasks
ChatGPT4.8Yes$20/moNatural-language chat and drafting
Claude4.7Yes$20/moLarge context window
Perplexity AI4.6Yes$20/moCited, sourced answers

Our verdict

4.2 / 5 4.2

Z.ai is a strong chatbots tool, best known for agent mode for autonomous multi-step tasks. It offers a free plan, with paid upgrades from $10/mo.

What makes it different: Z.ai stands out for agent mode for autonomous multi-step tasks.

How we score it
Overall 4.2
Value for money 4.7
Feature depth 4.7
Popularity 3.7
Best for Support teamsResearchersWritersEveryday users

Frequently asked questions

What is Z.ai?
Z.ai is a chatbots tool listed in the Challenging Voice directory. Free chat powered by GLM models.
Is Z.ai free?
Yes, Z.ai offers a free plan. Paid plans unlock more features and higher usage limits, starting at $10/month.
How much does Z.ai cost?
Z.ai starts at $10 per month. See the pricing plans above for full details.
What are the best Z.ai alternatives?
Popular alternatives to Z.ai include Felo, ERNIE Bot, and Komo. Browse them all in the Chatbots category.
Is Z.ai any good?
Z.ai scores 4.2 out of 5 based on our editorial review.

Reviews

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