Oh no, I am not disagreeing with you. I was perfectly happy with startpage and ddg, until I have less time to scroll over ad and a bit more money to spend.

I just want to put the price into perspective. I agree that people should be financially responsible and use the free solution when they don't have the cash.

That being said, some people around me have an openAI/claude subscription that is way more expensive. And that makes me feel slightly better about where my money is going to.