Are Copilot and ChatGPT the same? Comparison and Answer

Short answer: Both are based on the same AI technology but fulfill different tasks and are used in different places.

1. What they have in common

ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot both use large language models from OpenAI (for example GPT-4o). They can write texts, answer questions, and create images using DALL-E 3.
Both work through a chat interface: you ask a question, and the AI responds in natural language.

2. The main differences

2.1 Where they are used

• ChatGPT works via a separate website or app. You open it, type your question, and get an answer.
• Microsoft Copilot is built directly into Microsoft products. You find it in the Edge browser, Windows 11, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, or Teams.
• Additionally, there is GitHub Copilot specifically for programmers (about which we will not go into detail in this article).

2.2 What data they can access

• ChatGPT only sees what you type directly into the chat window or manually upload.
• Copilot (free version) works similarly but also offers live web search.
• Copilot for Microsoft 365 (paid version) can access your emails, documents, calendars, and Teams chats — depending on permissions — to generate personalized responses.

2.3 Main purpose

• ChatGPT is a free idea generator and explainer for almost any topic, independent of specific programs.
• Copilot is a productivity assistant within the Microsoft ecosystem, supporting you directly in Word, Excel, or Outlook.
• Especially in a professional environment, Copilot can save a lot of time if you work regularly with Microsoft programs.

Our tip:
If you mainly need creative help or general answers, ChatGPT is the better choice.
If you use Microsoft programs daily, Copilot (but only in the paid version) can be worth it.

2.4 Costs – a quick overview (as of April 2025)

• ChatGPT Free: Free. Includes GPT-4o, web search, and image generation.
• ChatGPT Plus: €20 per month. Offers faster responses, higher usage limits, and earlier access to new features.
• Copilot Free: Free. Provides web search and image generation, integrated into Edge/Windows.
• Copilot Pro: €22 per month. Expands Copilot to include the free Office web apps.
• Copilot for Microsoft 365: €28 per month (in addition to an existing Microsoft 365 license). Enables deep integration into Office programs and access to organizational data.

2.5 Data protection at a glance

• With Copilot for Microsoft 365, your organizational data stays within your own system (tenant) and is not used for AI training.
• With ChatGPT Free and Plus, inputs may be used to improve the AI. Therefore, sensitive information should not be entered into the chat.
• ChatGPT Enterprise offers a similar data protection standard as Copilot for Microsoft 365 and is specifically designed for businesses.

3. Which tool fits which situation?

If you want to write creative texts, brainstorm ideas, or translate content, ChatGPT is ideal.
If you work a lot in Word, Excel, or Outlook and want to become more efficient, you should use Copilot for Microsoft 365.
If you program regularly in development environments like Visual Studio Code, GitHub Copilot is the best helper.
For quick queries in the browser, Copilot Free in Edge or Windows is sufficient.

4. Conclusion

ChatGPT is a stand-alone all-round chat assistant suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Microsoft Copilot, on the other hand, is an embedded assistant inside Microsoft programs, particularly strong in professional settings.

Both use the same AI technology but differ significantly in where they are used, what data they access, and their pricing models.
Depending on what you need, you can quickly find the right tool.

You can also continue reading here about AI transcription tools that make your life easier.