Does the free version of ChatGPT-5 hallucinate a lot more?

Evaluating the Reliability of the Free Version of ChatGPT-5: Are Hallucinations More Common?

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, tools like ChatGPT-5 have become increasingly prevalent in assisting with various projects and tasks. However, users have begun to notice discrepancies and inaccuracies—commonly referred to as “hallucinations”—especially in free access versions. This article explores the potential differences in output quality between free and paid versions of ChatGPT-5 and discusses the importance of trustworthiness in AI-generated information.

The Experience with ChatGPT-5’s Logical Accuracy

Recently, a user attempted to utilize the free version of ChatGPT-5 to support a project. Initially, the AI performed well, but soon it began providing illogical answers. For example, it stated that November was more than three months before the end of the year—an obvious factual error. When the user pointed out this mistake, the AI apologized but continued to produce reasoning that did not align with logical standards.

Are Hallucinations More Prevalent in Free AI Versions?

Such occurrences raise questions about the reliability of the free versions of advanced AI models. While these tools are powerful, they are not infallible. Hallucinations—where AI generates plausible but incorrect or nonsensical information—can be more common in free tiers, possibly due to limitations in model tuning, resource allocation, or update frequency.

Prioritizing Trustworthiness Over Complexity

For professionals and everyday users alike, trustworthiness in AI output is paramount. While the capability to perform complex tasks is impressive, it holds little value if the foundational information is unreliable. A user’s confidence in AI tools hinges on accuracy and consistency, especially when the technology is used for decision-making or knowledge-critical tasks.

Guidelines for Effective AI Usage

To maximize the benefits of AI tools like ChatGPT-5, consider the following best practices:

• Start Simple: Use the AI for straightforward, factual queries to assess reliability.
• Verify Critical Information: Cross-check outputs against trusted sources, especially when accuracy is crucial.
• Upgrade When Necessary: Explore paid versions or enterprise solutions that may offer enhanced performance and reduced hallucinations.
• Provide Clear Feedback: Report inaccuracies to developers to help improve future iterations.

Conclusion

While AI models such as ChatGPT-5 continue to advance, users must remain vigilant about their limitations. The perception that free versions may produce more hallucinations underscores the need for cautious usage,