ChatGPT keeps getting better each year, but it’s only one option in a vast ocean of AI productivity tools. Today, no matter what productivity challenge you’re facing, there’s likely an AI solution — whether it’s smart updates to apps you already trust or brand-new platforms with incredible capabilities.
After spending plenty of time exploring AI tools, I’ve kept this list fresh with ongoing research and hands-on testing from both myself and the team at Zapier. Now, here’s a collection of over 60 AI productivity tools that can transform the way you work.
The best AI productivity tools by category
- Chatbots: ChatGPT, Claude, Meta AI, and Zapier Agents
- AI-Powered Search: Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Arc Search
- Content Creation: Jasper, Anyword, Writer
- Grammar and Rewriting Tools: Grammarly, Wordtune, ProWritingAid
- Video Editing and Creation: Runway, Descript, Wondershare Filmora
- AI Image Generators: DALL·E 3, Midjourney, Ideogram
- Social Media Management: FeedHive, Vista Social, Buffer
- Voice and Music AI: ElevenLabs, Suno, AIVA
- Knowledge Management & AI Memory: Mem, Notion AI Q&A, Personal AI
- Task and Project Organization: Asana, Any.do, BeeDone
- Meeting Transcription and Assistants: Fireflies, Avoma, tl;dv
- Scheduling Tools: Reclaim, Clockwise, Motion
- Email Productivity: Shortwave, Microsoft Copilot Pro for Outlook, Gemini for Gmail
- Presentations and Slide Decks: Tome, Beautiful.ai, Slidesgo
- Resume Builders: Teal, Enhancv, Kickresume
- Automation Solutions: Zapier
How I selected the best AI productivity app in each category
My AI app database currently holds 270 entries, but I’m certain there are countless more out there, with new ones emerging every week.
Just to be completely upfront: I’ve reviewed most of these apps myself, but I haven’t had the chance to test every single one—yet. The list you’re about to dive into features a curated selection of top AI productivity tools, tested by Zapier’s app review team (with my help too). If a particular category catches your eye, check out the “best apps” lists we’ve created for them—or, if we haven’t finished one yet, a quick Google search should point you to even more options.
Remember, while these AI tools are improving rapidly, they’re still not flawless—always double-check their output with your own judgment. Now, buckle up—we’re about to take off!
AI chatbots
The best place to kick things off is with the category that truly catapulted AI into the spotlight: AI chatbots. These tools let you interact with large language models in a conversational way—asking questions, getting answers, and even diving into complex reasoning, coding, and calculations.
You can browse our full lineup of top picks in our guide to the best AI chatbots.
At the forefront is ChatGPT, the chatbot that revolutionized the scene. Now powered by GPT-4o, 4o-mini, and the o1 reasoning model, it’s impressively versatile and user-friendly. Whether you want to write marketing content, conduct market research, or draft sales emails, ChatGPT makes it easy. Need a hand? Check out our guides on how to use ChatGPT effectively.
Plus, by connecting ChatGPT to Zapier, you can embed AI into your favorite workflows—automating tasks directly inside the apps you use every day.
Claude, from Anthropic, takes a creative and cautious approach. It can generate Artifacts—like interactive interfaces, structured documents, and even simple games—right in a separate workspace. Tweak your project by prompting on the left and watch your creations take shape on the right. You can also link Claude with thousands of apps via Zapier. Curious? Explore our guides on automating Claude or jump right into a ready-to-use workflow.
Meta AI, currently rolling out in the U.S., is Meta’s first big step toward weaving AI into Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Beyond answering questions, it can also create images and quick animations from simple prompts. Eventually, Meta AI could help you browse your feeds more intelligently, summarizing content and delivering key insights about your social networks.
Zapier Agents offer a different take: an experimental AI workspace where you build AI agents through a chatbot-style interface—no coding required. Start by linking your agent to platforms like HubSpot, Notion, or Airtable to sync your company’s core data. Then, teach your agent to automate tasks, process information, summarize results, and even act independently while you focus on bigger goals.
Think of Zapier Agents as custom mini-assistants that analyze data, search the web, or manage customer responses—all at your command. It’s chat, automation, and analysis bundled into one powerful tool. Learn more about Zapier Agents and get started for free!
AI search engines
One of the major challenges with AI is hallucination—when AI generates inaccurate or misleading information. To help reduce this risk, some tools integrate live web searches directly into their apps, using real sources to back up AI responses. That, in essence, is what an AI search engine does.
You can check out the full breakdown in our guide to the best AI search engines.
At the front of the pack is Perplexity, a standout thanks to its accurate answers, reliable source citations, and ability to stay focused even as you ask follow-up questions. It blends ranking signals from Google, Bing, and its own algorithms to select the best sources for its responses. It’s an incredible companion to traditional Google searches, especially when diving into niche topics—I’ve found some surprisingly specific insights using Perplexity. Want to learn more? Check out Zapier’s complete guide to using Perplexity.
AI apps for content creation
Writer’s block has been the inspiration for entire films — but these apps are designed to conquer it. Whether you start with a prompt, a template, or a creative recipe, AI models can act as your co-writer, helping you craft first drafts with ease.
Explore all your options in our roundup of the best AI writing generators.
AI apps for text enhancement
Spell-checking has been around for years, but AI is taking it to a new level. In the past, it could only catch simple spelling mistakes and grammar issues. Today, AI can recognize tone, analyze complex language, and suggest ways to make your writing sharper and more effective.
Explore our complete list of the top grammar checker apps.
AI apps for video generation and editing
Although comprehensive video generation is still in development, there are already several AI-powered tools available that enhance videos, precisely remove backgrounds, and even add new images to each frame.
Check out our selection of the top AI video generators for the complete list.
AI apps for image generation
An image can convey more than words ever could, but you don’t need an endless stream of words to create stunning visuals with AI. These image generators transform simple text prompts into striking images—some will amaze, while others may give you a fright. Whether for fun or function, these tools are both entertaining and incredibly useful.
Check out our curated list of top AI image generators.
AI apps for social media management
Managing social media can feel like juggling countless tasks—new posts, video uploads, audience engagement, and constant reports. AI can lighten the load by helping you stay on top of everything, from content creation to community interaction. Explore the best AI tools to streamline your social media management.
AI tools for voice and music generation
Social media creators, including YouTubers, often struggle to produce unique audio content. AI voice and music generators come to the rescue, providing endless creative possibilities to remix or create fresh sounds.
AI tools for knowledge management and grounding
AI also excels at assisting with search, especially when integrated into your personal data systems or knowledge repositories. These tools connect you with your facts, offering precise, natural language responses instead of wasting time sorting through notes. This is what’s known as grounding—keeping AI aligned with your data rather than letting it drift into error-prone territory.
AI apps for task and project management
With the right strategy, collaboration and execution become a breeze. AI-powered project management tools bring clarity, streamline processes, and ensure every task is checked off. There’s no shortage of tools to help optimize your workflow.
AI transcription tools and meeting assistants
Taking notes in meetings can distract from active listening, but AI transcription and meeting assistants can transcribe conversations for you. This allows you to focus on the discussion while keeping a thorough record for future analysis.
Discover the best transcription apps and AI-powered meeting assistants to enhance your productivity.
AI apps for scheduling
The hassle of coordinating meetings and managing your daily tasks can drain your time. AI scheduling assistants are here to minimize that back-and-forth, helping you stay on track with minimal effort. Check out the top AI tools that simplify scheduling your life and work.
AI tools for email and inbox management
Managing your email inbox consumes valuable time—people often spend a month each year just sorting and replying to messages. AI email assistants can categorize emails, draft replies, and keep everything organized, cutting down on the time spent on this task.
AI apps for presentations and slide decks
Your powerful stage presence is only part of the equation; great slides keep your audience engaged and reinforce your message. But creating the perfect presentation can be time-consuming. AI tools can help you craft beautiful slide decks with ease.
Explore AI-powered alternatives to PowerPoint that enhance your presentation design.
AI apps for resume building
Job hunting can be a full-time job in itself. From searching for roles to writing tailored resumes and crafting compelling cover letters, AI can simplify each step of the process. Discover the top AI resume builders that can help you land your next role.
AI automation tools
AI is impressive on its own, but when integrated into your daily tools and workflows, it can become a productivity powerhouse. Explore how AI can automate your tasks and connect seamlessly with the software you already use.
Additional AI productivity apps
For those who love trying niche apps, here are some more AI tools worth checking out.
- 3D Modeling: Create stunning 3D designs with tools like Spline AI, 3DFY.ai, and Meshcapade.
- AI Agents: Automate repetitive tasks with platforms like AI Agent, AgentGPT, and HyperWrite Assistant.
- Research: Dive deep into your research with tools like aomni, genei, and Consensus.
- AI App Builders: Quickly build apps and interfaces with tools like Softr, PowerApps, and AppSheet.
- Universal Search: Dropbox Dash helps you connect all your data sources into one place for efficient search and retrieval.
- File Organization: Keep your file system tidy with Sparkle, an app that organizes your folders and files.
- Screen Sharing: Loom now offers AI features to name, categorize, and break down presentations for easy viewing.
AI for productivity: The AI-powered assistant
While I’m an AI enthusiast, it’s important to remember that AI tools are here to enhance your productivity, not replace your creativity. Use them to save time, spark ideas, and find new perspectives. But always stay focused on your ultimate goal.
Beware of getting caught in a cycle of endless prompts and generated outputs. The key is knowing when to refine and edit to keep things concise and meaningful.
With these tools at your disposal, you’re ready to take on any task. Let AI assist you in your productivity journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are AI image generators?
AI image generators use algorithms to create visuals from text descriptions. By inputting a prompt, users can generate anything from realistic photos to abstract art, depending on the tool’s capabilities.
How can AI help with social media management?
AI tools for social media management assist with content creation, audience engagement, scheduling posts, and generating reports, allowing creators and brands to stay consistent and save time.
Can AI help with creating presentations?
Yes, AI can assist in building visually appealing slide decks by suggesting designs, layouts, and content organization, allowing you to focus more on delivering your message rather than spending time on design.
How does AI improve email management?
AI email assistants can categorize messages, suggest replies, and organize your inbox, reducing time spent on sorting and responding, making email management more efficient.
What are AI scheduling assistants?
AI scheduling assistants help you manage your time by automating meeting setups, organizing tasks, and syncing your calendar, ensuring a smoother and more efficient daily routine.
Conclusion
AI tools are revolutionizing the way we handle various tasks, from image creation to scheduling and social media management. By integrating these tools into your workflow, you can streamline processes, save time, and boost productivity. Whether you’re managing emails, building presentations, or automating tasks, AI offers a powerful solution to help you focus on what matters most—achieving your goals efficiently.
