Kagi, the privacy-focused, paid search engine, has made its AI-powered “Assistant” feature available to all users, including those on the free trial. This feature provides access to a variety of Large Language Models (LLMs) for both conversational chat and web-based searches.
Kagi distinguishes itself from traditional search engines like Google by prioritizing user privacy. Instead of relying on advertising and data collection, Kagi operates on a subscription model, offering an ad-free and private search experience. While some open-source and free search engines also focus on privacy, they often resort to advertising and face funding challenges that hinder feature development. Kagi’s user-funded model allows it to avoid ads, protect user data, and continuously improve its features and search experience.
Kagi’s standard interface features a familiar search bar, much like Google’s. However, activating Assistant mode transforms the interface into an LLM-style chat window. Users can select their preferred AI model from a dropdown menu and toggle web access on or off. Without web access, the Assistant functions as a typical chatbot. With web access enabled, Kagi Search empowers the AI model, allowing users to ask any question and receive generated responses with hyperlinked references.
Kagi search Assistant feature.
Kagi’s subscription tiers offer varying levels of access. The Ultimate tier, priced at $25 per month, caters to professionals and AI enthusiasts, providing access to the most advanced AI models and unlimited searches and interactions. Kagi estimates that the average Google user conducts around 100 searches per month. Therefore, they offer a $5 Starter plan with 300 searches and AI interactions, including access to “standard” AI models such as GPT 4o mini, GPT 4.1 mini, Gemini 2.5 Flash, Mistral Pixtral, Llama 4 Scout, Nova Lite, and DeepSeek Chat V3. For users who prioritize unlimited searches and interactions but don’t require the top-tier AI models, the Professional plan is available for $10 per month.
Even the free trial tier now includes access to the Assistant feature, granting users 100 searches and AI interactions. Kagi also employs a “Fair Pricing” system, crediting unused monthly subscriptions to the following month.
While the concept of paying for a search engine may seem unusual, traditional “free” search engines are ultimately funded by advertising, often accompanied by extensive tracking and data collection. Kagi offers an alternative model, prioritizing privacy and a streamlined user experience.
