Merlin AI Review: Is It Worth It in 2025?

Merlin AI has gained popularity as a browser-based AI assistant that helps users with research, writing, automation, and more. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, Merlin AI integrates directly into your web browsing experience, offering one-click AI assistance across Google Search, YouTube, Gmail, and other platforms.

But with so many AI tools available in 2025, is Merlin AI really worth it? How does it compare to alternatives like ChatGPT, Monica AI, or Google Gemini? And is the pricing justified for what it offers?

In this review, we'll take a deep dive into Merlin AI's features, pricing, pros and cons, and real-world use cases—helping you decide whether it's the right AI tool for your needs. 🚀

What Is Merlin AI and How Does It Work?

Merlin AI functions as a browser-based AI assistant, allowing users to interact with AI directly from their web pages. It integrates multiple AI models to assist with research, content generation, and automation.

How It Enhances Productivity Through Automation

Merlin AI offers one-click AI assistance, helping users streamline various workflows. Key automation features include:

• AI-Powered Web Research – Summarizes search results and extracts key insights from articles.
• Email Drafting & Replies – Generates and refines professional email responses.
• Code Analysis & Debugging – Uses AI-powered tools to analyze and suggest code improvements.
• YouTube Summarization – Extracts key points from videos, providing time-stamped summaries.
• Social Media Automation – Assists with drafting posts and replies for platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter.

While Merlin AI enhances productivity, its effectiveness depends on task complexity, model limitations, and user input refinement.

The AI Models Powering Merlin AI

Merlin AI provides access to multiple mainstream AI models, but availability depends on the subscription plan:

• Free Plan: Access to models like GPT-3.5, with daily query limits.
• Pro Plan: Unlocks GPT-4o, Claude 3, Gemini 1.5, Perplexity AI, Llama, and Mistral, along with DALL·E-3 for AI-generated images. Some features may have additional usage restrictions.
• Team Plan: Includes all Pro features, plus enhanced collaboration tools and enterprise-level security.

Users can switch between models based on their needs, though some features (e.g., AI-generated images) may have usage limits or require additional credits.

What Are the Main Features of Merlin AI?

1. Multi-Model AI Chat

• Access to multiple AI models like GPT-4o, Claude 3, Gemini 1.5, Perplexity AI, Llama, and Mistral.
• Users can select the preferred model for specific tasks, balancing speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency.
• Optional web access for retrieving real-time information and current events.

2. AI-Powered Web Research and Summarization

• Summarizes articles, research papers, and web pages in one click.
• Extracts key insights from YouTube videos with time-stamped summaries.
• Allows users to chat with articles, PDFs, and other documents to quickly extract relevant information.

3. Email and Social Media Assistance

• Automated email drafting and replies for Gmail and Outlook.
• Generates LinkedIn and Twitter (X) posts tailored for professional engagement.
• Provides AI-generated responses to comments and messages in a customizable tone.

4. Code Interpretation and Data Analysis

• Features an AI-powered code interpreter that helps analyze and debug code.
• Can process and extract insights from Google Docs, Excel files, and structured data.
• Supports query-based interaction to extract specific data insights.

5. AI Image Generation

• Integrated AI image generator with 30+ models, including DALL·E-3.
• Users can select aspect ratios and styles (e.g., artistic, realistic, anime).
• "Bonkers by Merlin" – a dedicated AI-image generation platform for advanced designs.

6. Workflow Automation and Chatbot Creation

• Supports custom chatbot creation for specific industries like eCommerce, finance, healthcare, etc.
• Automates repetitive tasks, such as content creation, customer support, and marketing.
• Offers pre-built AI templates for various productivity needs.

7. Google Live Search Integration

• Enhances Google search results with AI-generated summaries and follow-up answers.
• Functions similarly to Google's AI Overviews but with unlimited follow-up queries.

How Does Merlin AI Compare to Other AI Tools in 2025?

Merlin AI competes with a range of AI tools, including ChatGPT, Poe AI, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot. Each platform has strengths and weaknesses depending on the use case. Below is a detailed comparison based on features, performance, and usability.

1. Merlin AI vs. Poe AI

Merlin AI and Poe AI are both AI-powered productivity assistants, but they serve different user needs.

Verdict: Merlin AI excels in automation, AI model flexibility, and third-party integrations, while Poe AI is better suited for conversational AI and chatbot-style interactions.

2. Merlin AI vs. ChatGPT (OpenAI)

ChatGPT is one of the most widely used AI assistants, but Merlin AI differentiates itself with browser integration and workflow automation.

Verdict: ChatGPT excels in conversational AI, reasoning, and coding, while Merlin AI offers a more integrated experience for research, automation, and productivity tasks.

3. Merlin AI vs. Google Gemini

Google Gemini is designed to be a multi-modal AI system, but how does it compare with Merlin AI?

Verdict: Google Gemini is strong for multi-modal AI tasks, while Merlin AI provides a more flexible, productivity-focused AI assistant.

4. Merlin AI vs. Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Copilot is heavily integrated into Microsoft 365, making it ideal for enterprise users.

Verdict: Microsoft Copilot is best for business users within the Microsoft ecosystem, while Merlin AI is better for AI-powered research, writing, and automation.

How Can Users Install and Access Merlin AI?

Merlin AI is available on multiple platforms, including Chrome, Android, iOS, and Web. It is primarily used as a Chrome extension, allowing users to access AI assistance directly within their browser. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to install and start using Merlin AI.

Supported Platforms

Merlin AI can be accessed on the following platforms:

• Chrome Extension – Works within Google Chrome for AI-powered research, writing, and automation.
• Android App – Available on Google Play Store for mobile AI assistance.
• iOS App – Allows users to interact with Merlin AI on their iPhones and iPads.
• Web Version – Can be used directly on the Merlin AI website without installation.

Among these options, the Chrome extension is the most feature-rich and widely used.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing the Chrome Extension

To use Merlin AI on Chrome, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Chrome Web Store

• Visit the Merlin AI Chrome Extension page.

Step 2: Install the Extension

• Click on "Add to Chrome" and confirm the installation.
• The extension will be added to your browser toolbar for easy access.

Step 3: Sign Up or Log In

• Click on the Merlin AI icon in your browser.
• Sign up using an email address or log in if you already have an account.

Step 4: Start Using Merlin AI

• Use the Ctrl + M (Windows) / Cmd + M (Mac) shortcut to open Merlin AI anywhere in the browser.
• Enable Merlin AI for Gmail, YouTube, Google Search, and social media sites.
• Adjust settings based on your preferred AI model and automation features.

Merlin AI Pricing: Is It Worth the Cost?

Merlin AI offers a range of pricing plans tailored to different user needs, from casual users to businesses requiring advanced AI-powered automation. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pricing and how it compares to similar AI tools.

Merlin AI Pricing Plans

📌 The Free Plan is ideal for occasional users, while the Pro Plan suits those needing frequent AI assistance. The Team Plan is designed for businesses requiring secure, collaborative AI-powered workflows.

How Does Merlin AI Compare to Similar AI Tools?

Merlin AI competes with several AI-powered assistants like Monica AI, Voilà AI, and Straico, which also offer multi-model access and AI automation. Here's how they compare in terms of pricing and features:

📌 Merlin AI is more expensive than Voilà AI and Monica AI but provides stronger Chrome integration and AI automation. Straico AI offers greater AI model flexibility but imposes word-based usage limits.

Which Plan or Tool Should You Choose?

✅ Merlin AI – Best for Chrome users needing AI-driven workflow automation.
✅ Monica AI – Best for cost-effective multi-model AI access with AI writing & translation.
✅ Voilà AI – Best for affordable web-based AI summarization.
✅ Straico AI – Best for custom AI model access with structured word-based limits.

Final Verdict: Is Merlin AI Worth It in 2025?

Who Should Use Merlin AI?

✅ Content creators & marketers – AI-powered writing, summarization, and social media automation.
✅ Researchers & professionals – Efficiently extracts insights from articles, PDFs, and YouTube videos.
✅ Business users & teams – Automates emails, LinkedIn engagement, and data analysis.
✅ Developers & analysts – Provides AI-based code interpretation and debugging.

Key Benefits & Drawbacks

✔ Multi-model AI access with real-time browsing and automation.
✔ Seamless Chrome integration for AI assistance across websites.
✔ AI-powered summarization & content generation for efficiency.
✘ Free plan limitations – Only 102 daily queries.
✘ Higher cost than some competitors (Pro Plan: $19/month).
✘ No standalone desktop or mobile app—limited to browser use.

Alternatives to Consider

• Monica AI ($8.3/month) – Cheaper multi-model AI with translation & image generation.
• Voilà AI ($6/month) – Budget-friendly AI summarizer with web integration.
• Straico AI ($9.99/month) – Flexible AI model switching with file analysis tools.

Should You Get Merlin AI?

✅ Yes, if you need a browser-based AI assistant for content, research, and automation.
❌ Consider alternatives if you want a standalone app or lower-cost AI chat tools.

📌 Merlin AI is a powerful tool for productivity-focused users, but pricing and browser dependency may not suit everyone. Choose based on your needs! 🚀

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Merlin AI Work on Browsers Other Than Chrome?

Currently, Merlin AI is primarily designed as a Chrome extension and is officially available through the Chrome Web Store. However, it also offers a web version that can be accessed on different browsers, including Edge and Firefox.

Additionally, Merlin AI has mobile apps for Android and iOS, allowing users to access AI-powered assistance beyond the browser environment.

📌 For the best experience, it is recommended to use Merlin AI on Chrome, but alternative access options exist through the web version and mobile apps.

Can Merlin AI Generate AI Images?

Yes, Merlin AI includes an AI image generation feature as part of its Pro Plan. It supports DALL·E-3 and Leonardo AI, allowing users to create high-quality images from text prompts.

To generate AI images with Merlin AI:

1. Open the AI Image Generator tool.
2. Enter a description of the desired image.
3. The AI will generate an image based on the input.

📌 This feature is available exclusively for Merlin Pro users.

Is There a Refund Policy for Paid Plans?

Yes, Merlin AI offers a refund policy under specific conditions:

• Low Usage Refund: If you use the service minimally after subscribing, you can request a full refund (minus transaction fees) within 2 days for weekly plans, 7 days for monthly plans, and 3 months for annual plans.
• Annual Plan Refund: If you cancel an annual plan early, you will receive a prorated refund based on the number of months used, with the refund calculated at the monthly rate.
• Refund Processing: Refund requests must be submitted in writing, and approved refunds will be processed within 7-10 business days.

📌 Transaction fees from payment processors are non-refundable. Refund policies may change, and the terms at the time of purchase will apply.

How Many Free Queries Do Users Get Per Day?

Merlin AI provides 102 free queries per day for all users.

• GPT-3.5 queries consume 1 query per use.
• GPT-4 queries consume 30 queries per use.

📌 Users on the free plan can maximize their queries by using GPT-3.5 for general tasks, while GPT-4 queries should be used selectively due to higher consumption.

Does Merlin AI Support Voice Input?

Currently, Merlin AI does not explicitly mention support for voice input on its official website. The platform primarily functions as a browser extension and web-based AI assistant, focusing on text-based AI interactions.

📌 For voice input functionality, users may need to rely on third-party speech-to-text tools in combination with Merlin AI.

• Can businesses use Merlin AI for professional tasks?
• Is Merlin AI available for mobile devices?
• What's the best AI model to use within Merlin AI?