ChatGPT vs Microsoft Copilot (2026)

TL;DR

ChatGPT (OpenAI) and Microsoft Copilot both run on GPT-4o but serve different audiences. Copilot is embedded in Microsoft 365 and Windows; ChatGPT is a standalone product with a richer feature set outside the Microsoft ecosystem.

Our Verdict

Copilot wins for Microsoft 365 users who want AI integrated into Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. ChatGPT wins for everyone else — its standalone feature set, image gen, and custom GPTs are more powerful.

Idéal pour

• Microsoft 365 integration — copilot: Copilot is natively embedded in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams — zero workflow disruption.
• Windows daily use — copilot: Copilot is built into Windows 11, making it accessible from anywhere on your desktop.
• Custom AI workflows — chatgpt: ChatGPT's GPT builder and API ecosystem enable custom tools Copilot can't match.
• Image generation — chatgpt: ChatGPT has DALL-E built in; Copilot uses Bing Image Creator which is less capable.
• Enterprise IT control — copilot: Copilot plugs into enterprise Microsoft tenant security, compliance, and admin tools.

Avantages

• Copilot is deeply embedded in Microsoft 365 apps; ChatGPT requires copy-paste to work with Office documents.
• Microsoft 365 Copilot costs $30/user/month on top of M365 subscription; ChatGPT Plus is $20/month standalone.
• Both use GPT-4o at their core, but ChatGPT has more consumer features (image gen, voice, plugins).

Editor's Q&A

Is Microsoft Copilot the same as ChatGPT?

They use the same underlying model (GPT-4o) but are different products. Copilot is Microsoft's implementation focused on Office integration; ChatGPT is OpenAI's standalone product with a broader consumer feature set.

Is Copilot free?

A basic version of Copilot is free in Windows 11 and Bing. Microsoft 365 Copilot (the version inside Office apps) requires a separate $30/user/month license on top of your M365 subscription.