Which AI tool should I use for data analysis: ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or a dedicated tool?

For most founders, the chat tool you already pay for is enough: ChatGPT and Claude both run real code on uploaded files, and Gemini wins when your data lives in Google Sheets. Dedicated tools like Julius earn their $20 a month when you analyze files daily and want charts with zero prompt fiddling, while notebook platforms like Hex matter once a team queries live databases together. Pick one lane and go deep before adding tools.

A quick orientation. The real value is below: resources worth your time, from people who've actually done it.