ChatGPT vs Microsoft Copilot
If you work in Word, Excel and Windows all day, Copilot is built into the tools you already use. For everything else, ChatGPT is the more flexible all-rounder. Both are free to start.
| ChatGPT | Microsoft Copilot | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | The all-rounder with GPT-6: ask anything, draft scripts and emails, brainstorm, even make images. | Free AI assistant in Windows and the Copilot app; Microsoft 365 plans put Copilot inside Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook (standalone Copilot Pro discontinued). |
| Price | Free; Go $8/mo; Plus $20/mo; Pro from $100/mo | Free; Microsoft 365 Personal $9.99/mo; Premium $19.99/mo; Pro $99.99/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Price source | ChatGPT pricing | Copilot pricing for individuals |
| Full review | ChatGPT page | Microsoft Copilot page |
Quick verdict
Pick ChatGPT if
- You want the most flexible general assistant
- You also want image generation in one place
Pick Microsoft Copilot if
- You live in Windows and Microsoft 365
- You want AI inside Word, Excel and Outlook
Key differences
Microsoft Copilot is the assistant already in Windows and the Copilot app, and Microsoft 365 plans bring it into Word, Excel and Outlook. If your work is Office documents, that integration is the main reason to pick it.
ChatGPT is not tied to any office suite. It is the more flexible general assistant and also makes images in the same chat.
Both have free versions. Copilot's deeper Office features come with Microsoft 365 Personal ($9.99/mo) or Premium ($19.99/mo); ChatGPT has Go at $8/mo and Plus at $20/mo.
Which to use for common tasks
| Task | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Summarize a Word document | Copilot | Built into Office with Microsoft 365 |
| Make formulas in Excel | Copilot | Works inside Excel |
| Brainstorm ideas | ChatGPT | General all-rounder |
| Make an image | ChatGPT | Image making in chat |
| Already pay for Microsoft 365 | Copilot | Comes with your plan |
Try this prompt
I work mostly in [Word / Excel / Outlook / Google Docs]. Here's a typical task: [describe]. Walk me through doing it with AI step by step.
Prices from each tool's official pricing page at our last check (2026-10-22). Plans change often, so confirm before you buy. How we pick →
Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Copilot free?
Yes, there is a free Copilot assistant in Windows and the Copilot app. Deeper Office features come with Microsoft 365 plans, per Microsoft's pricing page.
Which is better for Office documents?
Copilot, because it is built into Microsoft's Office apps.
Is Copilot the same as GitHub Copilot?
No. Microsoft Copilot is the general assistant; GitHub Copilot is a coding helper inside code editors.
Which is better for work?
If your work lives in Office, Copilot. Otherwise ChatGPT is the more flexible pick.
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