The Take
ChatGPT is not worth it. It functions as a subscription tax on autocomplete with built-in data collection that pushes users toward paid tiers.
Free access gets throttled on purpose. Conversations train the model by default. The whole loop keeps you scrolling and paying while your data stays on their servers.
The Verdict
The product locks useful features behind recurring payments while harvesting chats for training. Context grows, privacy shrinks, and the wallet empties on something that used to be free.
Skip ChatGPT. Run Llama 3 locally on a used Mac Mini — one-time cost, zero subscriptions, your data stays yours.
Common Questions
What are the downsides of ChatGPT?
Free tier throttles output. Chats train the model by default. Everything stays server-side with no offline option.
What should you buy instead of ChatGPT?
Run Llama 3 locally on used hardware. One-time cost, full privacy, no monthly tax.
Does ChatGPT keep your chats private?
No. Training use is default unless you manually opt out in settings.
