Big tech companies are pushing their own versions of Artificial intelligence (AI) assistants to users. Among the most prominent AI assistants in the spotlight today are Microsoft’s Copilot and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Both tools have impressive capabilities but serve vastly different purposes, making the choice between them largely dependent on your specific needs. In this article, we’ll delve deep into what sets these two tools apart, their strengths and limitations, and how to decide which is best for you.
What is Microsoft Copilot?
It was first introduced as Bing Chat and then Microsoft rebranded the AI tools as Copilot. You can use Copilot in Windows 11, Edge browser, Bing Search or as a mobile and desktop app. it is also integrated into Microsoft’s suite of productivity tools, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams (Pro license needed for using on desktop apps). It acts as a “copilot” to help users streamline tasks, enhance creativity, and improve efficiency at work. Leveraging large language models (GPT-4), Copilot can assist with summarizing emails, generating presentations, analyzing data, drafting documents, and much more.
Funny thing is that Copilot is based on OpenAI’s GPT-4 model and hence you can find some responses are resembling ChatGPT.
Key Features of Microsoft Copilot
- The free version of Copilot app allows you to use Quick Response mode which will generate a response within 2 to 3 seconds. You need a Pro license for using Think Deeper (~30 seconds) and Deep Research (~10 minutes) modes. You can upload files, use voice mode, and use Copilot Vision for sharing your screen.
- Copilot is embedded into Microsoft 365 applications (you do have separate Microsoft 365 Copilot app), making it a seamless tool for users already familiar with Word, Excel, and other Office products. You can automate repetitive tasks like creating meeting notes, formatting slides, or pulling insights from spreadsheets. It also enhances real-time collaboration by summarizing ongoing conversations in Teams and suggesting actionable next steps.
- You can generate text-based as well as image response and there are no video generation option available.
Note: Bing Video Creator is available in Bing Search app as well as accessible online. This is a free tool using OpenAI’s Sora model for generating videos from text prompt.
What is ChatGPT?
ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is a conversational AI model designed to engage in natural language dialogues. Unlike Copilot, which is tightly integrated into Microsoft products, ChatGPT functions as a standalone chatbot. There are also custom GPTs available from third-parties and you can integrate with Microsoft 365 products as add-ins. It is versatile, creative, and adaptable, catering to a broad range of inquiries and tasks across various domains.
Key Features of ChatGPT
- ChatGPT is good in understanding and generating human-like text (better compared to Copilot), making it ideal for drafting emails, answering questions, or brainstorming ideas.
- You can use conversation, search, or Deep Research modes. Similar to Copilot, ChatGPT app support file uploading or directly taking screenshot from your system.
- From creative writing and coding assistance to answering general knowledge queries, ChatGPT serves as a versatile digital assistant.
- You can customize the app to get tailored responses. Though the app is free (or you can use web access), you need Plus license to get responses with less restrictions (especially image generation).
- It is also possible to use temporary chats in ChatGPT.
App Interface and Cost Comparison
Both Copilot and ChatGPT apps offers the followings:
- Available for iOS, Android, Windows and Mac.
- Apps share similar layout, featuring a sidebar and conversation area.
- You can copy the response or regenerate again.
As mentioned, sometimes you will get similar responses in both the tools as Copilot uses OpenAI’s GPT-4 as a base language model.
There are various pricing plans available for both ChatGPT and Copilot. However, the lowest Plus (ChatGPT) and Pro (Copilot) plan is sufficient for individuals and cost you $20 per month as a subscription.
Which One is the Best AI Assistant for You?
It’s super simple to decide.
- If your day-to-day work revolves around using Microsoft Office tools, Copilot’s integration with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint can save you hours by automating repetitive tasks and generating content based on your inputs.
- If you are not tied to the Microsoft ecosystem, ChatGPT’s standalone nature makes it a more accessible and versatile AI assistant. ChatGPT is the go-to option for natural language understanding and perfect for conversational use.
It’s also a good option to use Copilot Pro and ChatGPT free version to make the most out of both AI assistants.
