Summary
Microsoft Copilot embeds AI deeply into the Microsoft 365 suite (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook), while ChatGPT is a more powerful standalone AI assistant. Both are powered by OpenAI models, but serve different workflows.
Feature Comparison
Context Window
Microsoft Copilot128K tokens
ChatGPT128K tokens
Free Tier
Microsoft Copilot
ChatGPT
API Access
Microsoft CopilotVia Azure
ChatGPT
Code Generation
Microsoft CopilotGood
ChatGPTExcellent
Multimodal
Microsoft Copilot
ChatGPT
Mobile Apps
Microsoft Copilot
ChatGPT
Office 365 Integration
Microsoft CopilotNative
ChatGPT
Web Browsing
Microsoft Copilot
ChatGPT
Image Generation
Microsoft CopilotDALL-E
ChatGPTDALL-E
Plugin Ecosystem
Microsoft CopilotLimited
ChatGPTExtensive
Our Verdict
Choose Microsoft Copilot if you work heavily in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Choose ChatGPT for a more versatile, powerful standalone AI with a broader plugin ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are they powered by the same AI?
Both use OpenAI's GPT models, but Microsoft Copilot is optimized for integration with Microsoft products while ChatGPT offers the full standalone experience.
Is Microsoft Copilot free?
The basic Copilot in Windows and Bing is free. Copilot Pro ($20/mo) adds priority access and Office integration. Copilot for Microsoft 365 ($30/user/mo) adds full enterprise features.
Which is better for business use?
Microsoft Copilot is better for businesses already using Microsoft 365, as it works directly within Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams. ChatGPT is more versatile for standalone tasks.
Can I use ChatGPT in Microsoft Office?
Not directly. ChatGPT does not integrate into Office apps. Microsoft Copilot is the only AI natively embedded in the Microsoft 365 suite.