Both replace Google with an answer first and citations underneath. Perplexity is the cleaner reader, You.com is the deeper toolbox.
Perplexity is the better daily reader and citation engine. You.com is the better choice if you want multiple modes (research, code, write) in one place plus model switching.
Pick Perplexity if you want the cleanest research experience: ask, read, follow up, cite.
Pick You.com if you want one search box that also writes, codes, and lets you switch between Claude, GPT, and Gemini.
Both are far better than a bare chatbot, but always click through. The model can still misquote a source it correctly linked.
Both offer free tiers. Perplexity Pro and You.com Pro are roughly the same price and unlock the strongest models.
For research, often yes. For local search, shopping, and maps, Google is still the default.