How to Be the First Brand Mentioned in AI Search

We ran 30 high-intent prompts through today’s top AI engines to answer a big question: how do you become the first brand mentioned in AI search? Here’s what we learned and how you can apply these insights to claim that top spot.

First, the premise. The new front page of the internet isn’t Google anymore. It’s the AI-generated answer at the top of your screen.

When people ask AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity for a recommendation, whether it’s a product or a service, the response always includes a list of specific suggestions. Real brands and real products named directly in the answer.

And the first one mentioned tends to stick. It becomes the default, the safe choice people assume is best, whether it truly is or not.

So we started digging. Why do some brands keep showing up first? Are the results random, or is there a pattern? Most importantly, what can marketers do to earn that spot?

To find out, we designed an experiment. Not just to see which brands appeared, but to understand how the engines decide who to mention first.

Here’s what we did:

• Wrote 30 realistic, high-intent prompts across different industries
• Ran each prompt through three major generative search tools: ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity
• Tracked which brand appeared first, how the answers were structured, and which patterns emerged

This post shares what we discovered, with real examples, key insights, and clear steps you can take to help your brand show up first in AI-generated answers.

Let’s dive in.

Prompt Spotlight: “Best project management tool for remote teams”

 We kicked things off with a common SaaS query aimed at distributed teams.

ChatGPT’s Answer: ClickUp Leads the Pack

• ChatGPT returned a ranked list, placing ClickUp at the top and calling it the “best all-in-one solution.” The explanation focused on features like time tracking, customization, and collaboration.
• Other brands mentioned: Asana, Notion, Trello, Monday.com, Basecamp, Wrike
• Insight: ChatGPT often favors polished, all-in-one tools with strong brand narratives and broad functionality.

Claude’s Answer: Asana Comes First

• Claude gave a more narrative-style summary but led with Asana. It highlighted task hierarchy, reporting, and ease of use, especially for cross-functional teams.
• Other brands mentioned: Monday.com, Notion, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Linear
• Insight: Claude appears more balanced but still leans on familiar enterprise brands to anchor its responses.

Perplexity’s Answer: SmartSuite Steals the Show

• Perplexity gave a comparison table and named SmartSuite its top recommendation. That brand didn’t show up at all in the other engines.
• Other brands mentioned: ClickUp, Asana, Trello, Monday.com, Zoho Projects, Basecamp
• Insight: Perplexity seems to reward brands featured in product roundups and trusted content. Citation volume and structured data likely play a role.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why SmartSuite Got Picked

Here’s where things get interesting. The top source Perplexity cited was a blog titled “10 Best Project Management Tools for Remote Teams” — and it was written by SmartSuite.

This wasn’t a product page. It was a full editorial-style roundup that included competitors like Asana and Trello, and positioned SmartSuite as one of the top options.

Why it worked:

• The content was structured like third-party editorial, not a sales page
• It included clear comparisons and focused on relevant use cases
• It aligned closely with the user query and was easy for AI engines to cite

✅ Takeaway for brands:

You don’t have to wait to get featured in someone else’s roundup. If you create your own and make it genuinely helpful, engines like Perplexity may treat it as a credible source. That can land you the top mention in generative answers. Even ahead of more established competitors.

Prompt Spotlight: “Best accounting software for freelancers in 2025”

In a new vertical (finance), we tested how engines respond to a transactional query that freelancers and solopreneurs are actively asking.

ChatGPT’s Answer: QuickBooks on Top

• ChatGPT chose QuickBooks Self-Employed as its top pick, praising its tax tools and TurboTax integration.
• Other brands mentioned: FreshBooks, Wave, Bonsai, Xero, Zoho Books
• Insight: ChatGPT again leans on brand familiarity and longstanding authority, especially for compliance-heavy categories.

Claude’s Answer: Zoho Books Takes the Lead

• Claude started with Zoho Books, citing its affordability and automation features for freelancers earning under $50K. QuickBooks came second, then FreshBooks.
• Other brands mentioned: Wave, Bonsai, FreeAgent, ZipBooks
• Insight: Claude favored a brand that balances value and functionality, especially for cost-conscious users—possibly drawing from product comparison content.

Perplexity’s Answer: QuickBooks Returns

• Perplexity listed QuickBooks Online as the best overall solution, backed by citations. The format was structured and trust-heavy, with a comprehensive table comparing key features across tools.
• Other brands mentioned: FreshBooks, Wave, Zoho Books, Xero, ZipBooks
• Insight: Perplexity again lifted a mainstream tool with a large digital footprint, showing 6alignment with expert roundups and strong review coverage.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Zoho Books Got Picked

Claude put Zoho Books at the top of its list — and the reason wasn’t guesswork. It directly cited two respected roundup-style articles: one from Fit Small Business and another from Business.org. Both listed Zoho as the best accounting tool for freelancers, particularly those earning under $50K.

This wasn’t just about features. Both articles emphasized affordability, solo-preneur use cases, and strong invoicing tools — all tightly aligned with the query.

Why it worked:

• The articles were structured, scannable, and use-case specific
• Zoho was positioned as a top pick, not just one of many tools
• The sources themselves had domain authority and a reputation for small business advice

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If you want to rank first in Claude, being included in third-party roundups still matters — but not just anywhere. Focus on sources that are use-case specific and trust-heavy. Aim to be the tool that solves a very clear problem for a very specific user. In this case, Zoho won by being the best choice for cost-conscious freelancers, and getting that message repeated in the right places.

Prompt Spotlight: “Best email marketing tool for Shopify stores”

This is a high-intent, ecommerce-focused prompt where integrations and automation are everything. We expected a tight race between some well-known tools—and that’s exactly what we got.

ChatGPT’s Answer: Klaviyo Takes the Lead

• ChatGPT made its pick clear right away: Klaviyo. It called it the “best overall for ecommerce growth” and highlighted its deep Shopify integration, ROI-focused features, and predictive analytics.
• Other brands mentioned: Omnisend, Privy, Mailchimp, Drip, Shopify Email
• Insight: ChatGPT tends to reward tools with direct Shopify partnerships and strong ecommerce language. Klaviyo’s tight positioning around revenue tracking and automation gives it an edge.

Claude’s Answer: Omnisend Comes First

• Claude named Omnisend its top recommendation, citing strong multichannel capabilities (email, SMS, WhatsApp), gamified sign-up tools, and budget-friendly pricing.
• Other brands mentioned: Klaviyo, ActiveCampaign, Shopify Email, MailerLite
• Insight: Claude’s top picks often emphasize feature depth and flexibility across channels. It also seems to favor pricing transparency and wide adoption for small-to-medium Shopify stores.

Perplexity’s Answer: Omnisend Gets the Spotlight Again

• Perplexity also led with Omnisend, calling it the “best all-in-one ecommerce automation” tool and backing that up with citations and a detailed comparison table. Klaviyo came second, followed by MailerLite and Yotpo.
• Other brands mentioned: MailerLite, SmartMail, Sender, Shopify Email
• Insight: Omnisend appears in many cited review roundups, which may boost its prominence in Perplexity. Strong third-party content and structured data likely help it rank higher than better-known alternatives.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Omnisend Got Picked

Both Claude and Perplexity led with Omnisend as their top choice for Shopify email marketing. And they didn’t just guess. Perplexity cited multiple trusted sources — including review sites and app store listings — that framed Omnisend as the best fit for ecommerce automation.

What stood out? Omnisend showed up in curated roundups like EmailToolTester’s “Best Email Apps for Shopify” and consistently earns 4.7+ star ratings in the Shopify App Store. It’s praised for ease of use, multichannel automation, and built-in ecommerce workflows — all of which align closely with the query.

Why it worked:

• It was listed as the top pick, not just one of several options
• It appeared in roundups that were Shopify-specific and automation-focused
• The app store listing reinforced the recommendation with high reviews and relevant feature highlights

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If you want to earn the top mention in Perplexity or Claude, it’s not just about having a strong product. You need external proof points that clearly position you as the best fit for a specific use case. In Omnisend’s case, the win came from being repeatedly named the best Shopify email tool — not in generic lists, but in content designed for ecommerce users. That targeted positioning, backed by social proof, helped it beat out bigger names like Mailchimp and Klaviyo.

Prompt Spotlight: “Best mental health app for anxiety”

In this vertical, trust and credibility carry extra weight. We wanted to see how AI engines handle sensitive recommendations like mental health tools—and which apps they lead with.

ChatGPT’s Answer: Calm Comes Out on Top

• ChatGPT named Calm as its top choice, highlighting its guided meditations, breathing exercises, and anxiety-focused content. It was clearly labeled as the “Best Overall,” with an emphasis on relaxation and sleep support.
• Other brands mentioned: BetterHelp, Rootd, Sanvello, Moodnotes
• Insight: ChatGPT leads with brand familiarity and a broad use case. Calm’s mainstream presence and strong app store reviews likely give it an edge, especially when the answer structure favors generalist tools.

Claude’s Answer: MindShift CBT Gets the First Mention

• Claude started with MindShift CBT, calling it “Best for anxiety” and citing Healthline as a source. It emphasized CBT-based techniques and self-guided coping strategies. Calm came second.
• Other brands mentioned: Headspace, Talkspace, iBreathe
• Insight: Claude leans into evidence-based recommendations with third-party validation. It values mental health content that’s cited in expert roundups and appears to prioritize purpose-built apps over general wellness brands.

Perplexity’s Answer: Calm Leads Again, Backed by Citations

• Perplexity also ranked Calm at the top, calling it the best for “guided meditation and relaxation.” It included detailed strengths and ratings from app stores, and reinforced its position using trusted content sources.
• Other brands mentioned: MindShift CBT, Breathwrk, What’s Up?, Shine, AntiStress Game
• Insight: Perplexity blends brand popularity with structured evidence. Calm wins again, likely due to high ratings, review coverage, and broad applicability.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Calm Got Picked

Perplexity named Calm the top mental health app for anxiety, and its reasoning was clear. It pointed to a mix of expert endorsements, consistently high user ratings, and a broad set of features tailored to anxiety relief.

Calm showed up on multiple “best apps for anxiety” lists and was praised for guided meditations, breathing exercises, and other clinically supported tools. Its 4.8-star rating on the App Store and frequent recommendations by mental health professionals gave it strong authority across multiple trust signals.

Why it worked:

• Calm appeared consistently in expert roundups focused specifically on anxiety support
• It had strong user reviews across both iOS and Android platforms
• Its design and content closely matched the language of the query: anxiety relief, breathing, meditation

✅ Takeaway for brands:

To earn a top mention in wellness categories, trust needs to come from both directions: expert credibility and real-world user feedback. Calm ranked first because it had science-backed features, consistently high ratings, and coverage in content that was specifically about anxiety. Brands in health and wellness should invest in clinically grounded messaging, aim to appear in focused roundup content, and make sure their app store presence reflects real user success.

Prompt Spotlight: “What’s the easiest app to start learning a new language?”

We moved away from “best of” phrasing here to mimic how a real beginner might phrase their question. Instead of ranking tools by comprehensiveness or depth, this prompt tests which app feels most accessible to a total novice.

ChatGPT’s Answer: Duolingo Is the Simplest Way In

• ChatGPT named Duolingo the easiest app to start with, highlighting its short lessons, gamified experience, and ultra-low-pressure approach. It described the interface as fun and low-stress and praised how well it caters to total beginners.
• Other brands mentioned: Babbel, Memrise, Busuu, Drops
• Insight: ChatGPT framed its answer around emotional ease — how fun, approachable, and frustration-free the experience is.

Claude’s Answer: Duolingo Leads Again

• Claude also picked Duolingo as its top choice, citing its free plan, bite-sized content, and gamified learning model. It drew directly from roundup-style articles and emphasized how Duolingo adapts lessons based on your skill level.
• Other brands mentioned: Babbel, Mondly
• Insight: Claude stayed anchored to expert citations, but its summary was heavily focused on what makes the app feel intuitive and inviting.

Perplexity’s Answer: Duolingo for Absolute Beginners

• Perplexity echoed the same choice, positioning Duolingo as the top pick for ease and accessibility. Its summary emphasized cross-platform compatibility, gamified learning, and the generous free tier.
• Other brands mentioned: Memrise, Busuu, Drops
• Insight: Perplexity synthesized multiple source articles, including lists from Wired, Reddit, and The New York Times, all naming Duolingo the easiest entry point for beginners.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Duolingo Dominated

This wasn’t about advanced features or deep fluency paths. It was about approachability, and Duolingo shows up consistently across expert lists focused on beginner ease and gamified learning.

All three engines surfaced it for the same reasons:

• Articles praised its low barrier to entry and universal accessibility
• Duolingo appears across editorial-style guides from outlets like Wired, TechRadar, and The New York Times
• Its wide availability (30+ languages), free tier, and engaging UI make it easy to recommend

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If your product shines in a low-friction, beginner-friendly use case, lean into that in your content. And aim to get featured in “starter guide” roundups, not just best-of lists. AI engines clearly distinguish between “best overall” and “easiest to try” and both paths are opportunities for visibility if you align with the intent.

Prompt Spotlight: “What’s the most budget-friendly energy-saving thermostat?”

This is a practical, purchase-ready query that hits a common consumer need: saving money without sacrificing comfort or energy efficiency.

ChatGPT’s Answer: Amazon Smart Thermostat Stands Out

• ChatGPT called Amazon’s model the best value overall, citing its Energy Star rating, Alexa integration, and sub-$80 price point. The write-up also mentioned that it’s commonly featured in trusted roundups from Better Homes & Gardens and Energy.gov.
• Other brands mentioned: Honeywell 7-Day Wi-Fi, Google Nest, Honeywell T5+, Cync
• Insight: ChatGPT’s top picks often align with high-authority editorial sources and energy.gov-style citations, especially when cost and government incentives are involved.

Claude’s Answer: Same Pick, Clearer Framing

• Claude also chose Amazon Smart Thermostat as its budget-smart winner. Its reasoning was highly structured, highlighting ease of installation, smartphone control, and Energy Star certification. It also compared it to a cheaper programmable model (Emerson Sensi) but called Amazon’s integration more robust.
• Other brands mentioned: Emerson Sensi, Nest, Ecobee
• Insight: Claude blends price and features well but places high value on energy certification and coverage by brands like CNN and GearLab.

Perplexity’s Answer: Same Winner Again

• Perplexity ranked Amazon Smart Thermostat second, just behind the Restored Wyze Thermostat which won mainly on price ($17 on Houzz). Still, Amazon’s model was clearly labeled “one of the most affordable smart options” with strong feature coverage.
• Other brands mentioned: Wyze, Honeywell 5-2, Ecobee, Orbit
• Insight: Perplexity includes real-time pricing, which helps elevate lesser-known value picks. But when it comes to “smart plus savings,” Amazon’s thermostat still wins out.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Amazon Got Picked

This time, Amazon Smart Thermostat didn’t win just because it was cheap. All three engines emphasized the same three trust signals:

• Energy Star certification — makes it rebate eligible and credible
• Mentions in top-tier roundups like CNN, TechGadgetsCanada, and GearLab
• Consistent cross-listings across commerce, tech, and HVAC buyer guides

Even Claude directly cited content from Amazon.com, GearLab, and utility rebate articles, showing how distribution across trusted sites reinforces AI visibility.

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If you’re in a regulated or utility-adjacent category, certifications and trusted publisher mentions go a long way. But so does clarity. Amazon won here not because it was the most advanced, but because its value was well-articulated across comparison articles and product guides.

If you’re trying to rank for budget-conscious or energy-efficient prompts, make sure your product page and offsite reviews highlight those benefits clearly — especially in places engines already trust.

Prompt Spotlight: “What’s a good air fryer that’s easy to clean and doesn’t take up much counter space?”

This prompt mimics how real people search when kitchen space and cleanup are key concerns. Each engine returned compact air fryer picks, but the top brand varied slightly based on source preferences.

ChatGPT’s Answer: COSORI Lite Gets the Nod

• ChatGPT highlighted the COSORI Lite 4-Qt Smart Air Fryer as the best all-around pick, citing its small footprint, smart features, and praise from The Spruce Eats for ease of use. The runner-up was the Dash Compact, noted for budget-friendliness and being frequently recommended by RTINGS and Good Housekeeping.
• Other brands mentioned: Dash AirCrisp, Instant Vortex, Ninja
• Insight: ChatGPT leans heavily on editorial sources with product testing credentials and consumer trust, like Spruce Eats and RTINGS. Brands mentioned favor compactness, smart controls, and dishwasher-safe designs.

Claude’s Answer: Ninja Dominates

• Claude led with the Ninja Air Fryer 4-in-1, calling it ideal for stowing under cabinets and easy to clean after repeated testing. It backed its picks with citations from roundup-style articles such as The 6 Best Small Air Fryers and Consumer Reports.
• Other brands mentioned: Dash Digital Tasti Crisp, Instant Vortex Mini
• Insight: Claude’s response favored the most thoroughly tested and widely cited product. Ninja’s consistent review performance made it the safe, trust-backed pick.

Perplexity’s Answer: Ninja and Instant Compete

• Perplexity also led with the Ninja AF101, emphasizing its compact design, ceramic-coated basket, and consistently high user ratings. It also recommended the Instant Vortex Mini and COSORI 4-Qt, with citations from Wired, Good Housekeeping, and Spruce Eats.
• Other brands mentioned: Cosori, Philips, Dash
• Insight: Perplexity puts more weight on structured product pages, star ratings, and editorial roundups from trusted media. The Ninja stood out not just for functionality, but for being listed in multiple expert lists.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Ninja Showed Up First

Across both Claude and Perplexity, Ninja’s 4-quart air fryer showed up as the lead pick. That wasn’t random. Both engines cited trusted editorial roundups that praised Ninja for its small footprint, easy cleaning, and consistent test performance.

Why it worked:

• Ninja was featured at the top of multiple trusted “small air fryer” lists
• The articles highlighted specific cleaning features and compact dimensions
• User reviews and hands-on testing were part of the cited sources

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If you want your kitchen product to top AI answers, don’t just show up in a buying guide. Dominate it. Lead with a clear value prop tied to real user priorities (in this case, size and cleaning) and make sure that message is reinforced across trusted review sites. Bonus points if you’re named in hands-on product tests with measurable pros and cons.

Prompt Spotlight: “What’s a simple credit card for building credit from scratch?”

We shifted gears into a more sensitive consumer vertical: personal finance. The query focuses on simplicity and accessibility, key concerns for users who are just starting to build credit.

ChatGPT’s Answer: Discover Secured Card Leads the List

• ChatGPT emphasized secured credit cards, placing the Discover it® Secured Credit Card at the top. It focused on perks like 2% cashback, no annual fee, and the option to graduate to an unsecured card after responsible use.
• Other cards mentioned: Capital One Platinum Secured, Chime Credit Builder
• Insight: ChatGPT tends to highlight well-known financial brands that combine rewards with flexible qualification, especially those cited in editorial reviews from sources like NerdWallet.

Claude’s Answer: A Broader Look at Secured and Student Options

• Claude broke the list into categories: secured cards, student cards, and basic unsecured options. While Discover was still mentioned first, Claude also included options from Citi and Credit One.
• Other cards mentioned: Capital One Platinum, Capital One SavorOne Student, Citi Secured Mastercard
• Insight: Claude takes a wider-angle view in finance verticals, offering tiered paths based on user type (student versus thin file). Its answers feel less brand-driven and more “choose your journey.”

Perplexity’s Answer: Chase Freedom Rise Tops the List

• Perplexity led with the Chase Freedom Rise, citing roundup-style coverage from NerdWallet and Money.com. It emphasized low requirements, no annual fee, and the fact that approval odds improve with a Chase banking relationship.
• Other cards mentioned: Current Build Card, Chime Secured Credit Builder, general secured card advice
• Insight: Perplexity surfaces cards mentioned across financial blogs and editorial content. Brand trust and supporting eligibility guidance appear to influence which products are highlighted.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Chase Freedom Rise Got Picked

Perplexity gave Chase Freedom Rise the top spot, and that wasn’t random. It cited trusted sources like NerdWallet and Money.com, both of which recommended the card for users with little or no credit history.

These articles didn’t just list features. They explained the card’s unique appeal:

• No credit history required
• Automatic review for credit line increases
• Better approval odds for existing Chase customers

Why it worked:

• The content came from finance-specific sites with high domain authority
• The articles explained specific eligibility advantages
• Chase Freedom Rise was positioned as a “beginner-friendly” choice, not just another secured card

✅ Takeaway for brands:

In financial services, showing up in trusted roundups from credit-focused publications is key. But it’s not just about being listed, it’s about being framed as the right fit for a specific user profile. Chase got picked because third-party content told a story: this card helps new users get started and potentially grow over time.

Prompt Spotlight: “What’s a durable beginner backpack for hiking trips?”

We stepped into the outdoor gear space with a practical user question focused on reliability and ease of use for new hikers. The phrase “durable beginner backpack” signals a clear use case and quality threshold, without leaning on luxury or expert-level gear.

ChatGPT’s Answer: REI Co-op Trail 40 Leads the Pack

• ChatGPT recommended the REI Co-op Trail 40 as its top choice. It praised the pack’s versatility for both day hikes and overnights, along with REI’s lifetime guarantee and solid storage. Other models highlighted Osprey and Deuter options for durability and fit.
• Other packs mentioned: Osprey Daylite Plus, Deuter Speed Lite 21, Gregory Citro
• Insight: ChatGPT tends to reward gear that balances durability with flexibility. It also favors brands known for warranty support and clear beginner benefits.

Claude’s Answer: Osprey and Gregory Get the Nod

• Claude structured its answer by price tier and featured several top brands. It recommended the Osprey Talon and Gregory Citro for their build quality and comfort, while calling out REI products for overall value.
• Other packs mentioned: Deuter Speed Lite, REI Co-op Trail 25
• Insight: Claude often uses tiered recommendations in consumer goods, giving readers options based on price. It leans on brand reputation and key design traits like ventilation, hydration sleeves, and quality zippers.

Perplexity’s Answer: Osprey Hikelite 26 Takes the Top Spot

• Perplexity led with the Osprey Hikelite 26, citing roundup content from Switchback Travel and CleverHiker. It emphasized simplicity, durability, and comfort. REI packs also showed up, particularly for value-conscious hikers.
• Other packs mentioned: REI Flash 55, Patagonia Refugio, Ozark Trail
• Insight: Perplexity frequently amplifies recommendations from gear review sites and editorial lists. Durability, warranty mentions, and clear audience fit (like “beginner” or “entry-level”) tend to influence the ranking.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Osprey Hikelite 26 Got Picked

Perplexity gave the Osprey Hikelite 26 the top mention, and its sources explain why. Both CleverHiker and Switchback Travel listed the Hikelite 26 as a top beginner backpack, calling out its durable nylon, comfort-focused design, and lightweight build.

These weren’t just quick listicles. They included:

• Quotes about the pack’s all-around performance
• Direct comparisons with pricier options
• Beginner-specific language like “entry-level” and “first pack”

 Why it worked:

• The sources are respected by outdoor gear buyers
• The product was clearly positioned as beginner-friendly
• Editorial mentions focused on build quality and ease of use, which directly matched the query

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If you want to show up in AI answers for gear queries, you need third-party reviews that match the user’s intent. In this case, Osprey didn’t just rank for quality. It ranked because trusted reviewers framed it as ideal for beginners who still want something that lasts.

Prompt Spotlight: “What’s a good massage gun for post workout recovery at home?”

We entered the fitness tech space with a prompt aimed at everyday users, not elite athletes. The goal: see which massage guns AI engines recommend for effective at home recovery.

ChatGPT’s Answer: Theragun Prime Plus Takes the Lead

• ChatGPT named the Theragun Prime Plus its top pick, emphasizing its 16mm amplitude, heated attachment, and professional grade power. The summary highlighted citations from Wirecutter and Popular Science, along with pricing and standout features.
• Other massage guns mentioned: RENPHO Power, Lifepro Sonic, Bob and Brad
• Insight: ChatGPT leans into premium devices with strong editorial backing. It emphasizes power, testing data, and brand authority over affordability alone.

Claude’s Answer: Theragun Pro and Mini Share the Spotlight

• Claude grouped picks by price range and started with the Theragun Pro, citing its power and attachments. In the mid range, it recommended the Theragun Mini for portability and value, alongside budget picks like OPOVE and Toloco.
• Other massage guns mentioned: Hyperice Hypervolt, TimTam Power Massager
• Insight: Claude prefers organized breakdowns by budget and use case. It gives users tiered choices and often elevates brands known for quality and durability.

Perplexity’s Answer: Theragun Pro Plus Gets the Spotlight

• Perplexity led with the Therabody Theragun PRO Plus, citing editorial reviews from Runner’s World, CNET, and tomsguide. The recommendation focused on deep tissue power, smart features, and broad reviewer trust.
• Other massage guns mentioned: Hyperice Hypervolt, Bob and Brad D6 Pro, Roll Recovery R1, Elefor
• Insight: Perplexity’s answer pulls directly from cited editorial roundups and buyer guides. Brands that dominate expert reviews, especially with feature rich breakdowns, tend to rise to the top.

Trust Signal Breakdown: Why Theragun Pro Plus Got Picked

Across ChatGPT and Perplexity, Theragun’s top tier models were the first mentioned, and it wasn’t just about specs. Both engines referenced expert product testing, citing publications like Wirecutter, Runner’s World, and CNET.

These reviews called out:

• 16mm amplitude and strong stall force
• Heated and guided app features
• Professional grade reliability for serious recovery use

Why it worked:

• The product was listed as the top pick across multiple expert roundups
• It earned high ratings in side by side product tests
• Trusted sources used language aligned with the query, including recovery, ease, and home use

✅ Takeaway for brands:

If you’re in a performance gear category, raw specs aren’t enough. To earn the top spot in AI generated answers, you need high trust endorsements that frame your product as the solution for a specific use case. Theragun wins here because trusted sources tell a consistent story. It’s the go to tool for serious recovery, backed by testing and proof.

How to Earn the First Brand Mention in AI Search

After running 30 prompts across three major AI engines, the takeaway is surprisingly simple: brands that rank first in comparison lists are the ones that get mentioned first in AI answers.

The engines aren’t guessing. They’re summarizing the internet, especially editorial-style content, to figure out which product to put at the top. So if you want your brand to be the one users see first, you need to earn that position in the source material.

Here’s what the patterns made clear:

1. Win the roundup. Win the result.
   Most engines leaned heavily on third-party listicles, product guides, and editorial reviews. The brand that appeared first or was framed as the top pick usually got the first mention in AI answers. Your goal isn’t just to be included in these lists. It’s to lead them.
2. Create your own (good) comparison content
   Some of the top mentions came from brand-authored content that looked and read like third-party editorials. When companies created honest, well-structured comparison guides, even featuring competitors, those pages got cited and elevated their own brand in the process.
3. Match the prompt language
   Whether users asked for the easiest, most budget-friendly, or best for beginners, AI engines looked for content that used those exact phrases. Tailor your messaging to match these common qualifiers. It helps engines connect your brand with the right use case.
4. Focus on clarity, not just credibility
   High star ratings and trust signals matter, but clear framing wins the day. If a review calls your product the best value under $100, that specific phrasing can push you to the top. It’s not just about having proof. It’s about making that proof easy to summarize.

Final Thought: The First Mention Is the New First Page

In the age of AI search, brand visibility isn’t just about ranking. It’s about positioning. The first brand mentioned in a generative answer sets the tone. It becomes the default. The one users remember.

What we’ve seen across 30 prompts and three engines is that these mentions aren’t random. They’re shaped by the content you create, the third parties who talk about you, and the clarity of your message.

The takeaway for marketers is simple but urgent: if you want to win in AI-driven search, you have to earn the narrative, not just the link.

That means publishing use case content that aligns with real queries, showing up in trusted roundups, and making sure your brand is framed as the right fit for the person asking the question.

Because in this new landscape, attention goes to the first brand mentioned. Make it yours.

Want to go deeper on what drives brand visibility in generative answers?

Check out our in-depth guide to AI trust signals, which reveals how engines like ChatGPT and Perplexity decide what to show—and why.