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Microsoft Copilot vs ChatGPT: which AI is most effective for your productivity?

By Anastasia De Santis

Published: 19 August 2025

In 2025, artificial intelligence is no longer an option in the workplace, it's an extension of your teams. Whether you're in HR, marketing, finance or development, you're looking for a reliable co-pilot to boost your productivity, automate tedious tasks and generate ideas that click.

But between Microsoft Copilot, the all-in-one ally of the Microsoft 365 suite, and ChatGPT, OpenAI's gifted conversational model, the choice isn't so simple. One integrates seamlessly into your everyday tools, while the other shines for its versatility, creativity... and increasingly powerful plugins.

So which one should you choose for your business in 2025? The duel is on.

What is Microsoft Copilot?

Overview of Copilot

Microsoft Copilot is a bit like saying that Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams have all been trained by OpenAI and put to work for your productivity.

Launched by Microsoft and boosted by the GPT-4 and GPT-4o models, Copilot is integrated into the heart of Microsoft 365. It acts as an intelligent assistant, capable of generating texts, summarising documents, creating presentations, analysing data or even writing emails... without leaving your favourite tools.

But Copilot isn't just a cool interface. It's a strategic AI building block for companies already committed to the Microsoft ecosystem. It draws on your documents, emails and Teams meetings to contextualise its responses and automate the most time-consuming tasks. The result: real time savings on a daily basis, without changing your habits (too much).

  • Target: companies with Microsoft 365, from SMEs to large groups.
  • Use cases: office productivity, automation, reporting, document management.
  • Positioning: AI assistant integrated into the Microsoft suite.
  • Typical customers: multi-team companies, cross-functional functions (HR, finance, management, marketing), non-technical profiles.

Main features of Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Copilot isn't just a search bar that answers your questions. It's a true contextual co-pilot that acts directly on your work tools. Here are the key features that make it indispensable (or almost):

  • Automatic generation of content in Word: summaries, outlines, rewordings, writing from simple instructions. Copilot knows how to write, but above all how to write for you, according to your tone and your data.
  • Data analysis in Excel: it identifies trends, suggests visualisations and builds pivot tables. Without complex formulas. No headaches.
  • Summarising and creating slides in PowerPoint: give ita Word report or a few bullet points and it will prepare a structured, visual presentation ready to be pitched.
  • Intelligent email writing in Outlook: it helps you reply, reformulate or summarise endless email chains (yes, even those with 12 attachments and 3 useless CCs).
  • Meeting summaries in Teams: recordings, transcripts, action points: Copilot sorts through them all and gives you a clear summary of key points and decisions.
  • Research and suggestions in Microsoft Loop and OneNote: it connects ideas, facilitates brainstorming and boosts collaboration in async mode.
  • Security and compliance by design: AI respects access rights and internal security policies. You keep control of your data.

Advantages and disadvantages of Microsoft Copilot

Copilot plays in the big league. But like any co-pilot, it has its strong points... and its turbulence.

✅ Advantages of Microsoft Copilot

  • Native integration into Microsoft 365: no need for a new app, Copilot slips straight into your everyday tools.
  • Contextual customisation: it understands your documents, emails and meetings, and adapts its suggestions to your business environment.
  • Fluid user experience: no learning curve, just click, write and move on.
  • Immediate time savings: drafting, summarising, analysing... Copilot automates what used to take hours.
  • Enterprise security: your data remains in your Microsoft tenant, with the same confidentiality rules as your files.

Disadvantages of Microsoft Copilot

  • Reserved for paying Microsoft 365 customers: impossible to use without a Business Standard or E5 licence.
  • High cost: $30/user/month on top of the Microsoft 365 subscription, it's not a low-cost gadget.
  • Less flexible than ChatGPT: Copilot remains confined to the Microsoft environment, with no third-party plugins or 'creative' use.
  • Dependence on the Microsoft ecosystem: not ideal if your teams use Google, Notion or Trello tools.

What is ChatGPT?

General presentation of ChatGPT

ChatGPT is OpenAI's star generative AI. And spoiler: in 2025, it is faster, more intuitive and more versatile than ever thanks to GPT-4o, its new multimodal engine capable of understanding text, images, audio and code.

Unlike Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT is not integrated into a suite of office automation tools. It is an independent AI interface (web, mobile or desktop) designed to interact, write, structure and create... on the fly. The user asks a question or gives an instruction, and ChatGPT responds with an almost human-like fluidity.

But where the model really impresses is in its ability to adapt to all business contexts: marketing copywriting, HR FAQs, code creation, legal assistance, meeting summaries, technical documentation, Excel spreadsheets, video scripts, etc.

  • Target: professionals, freelancers, marketing, product, support and tech teams... and anyone with repetitive or creative tasks.
  • Use cases: writing, brainstorming, task automation, content creation, customer support, no-code, low-code.
  • Positioning: general-purpose, customisable AI conversational agent.
  • Typical customers: freelancers, SMEs, innovation or customer success teams, creative and tech profiles.

Why GPT-4o and not GPT-5 in this comparison?

GPT-5 is much talked about, it's true. But in 2025, the version used by the majority of professionals (via ChatGPT Plus or Enterprise) is still GPT-4o. This is the engine that powers ChatGPT's official interface, with its multimodal features, improved speed and ability to process text, images and code in the same exchange.

GPT-5 is still reserved for limited uses (tests, premium APIs, specific use cases), and is not yet widely available or accessible in the classic interface.

👉 Result: to compare what's really usable in business today, we're sticking with GPT-4o.

ChatGPT's main features

ChatGPT doesn't just answer your questions. It's a machine for ideas, text and automation, accessible in just a few clicks from your browser, mobile app or via its API. Here's what it offers in concrete terms:

  • Content generation: ChatGPT can write articles, emails, scripts, LinkedIn publications, FAQs, guides or complex prompts, in any tone or style, on request.
  • Document analysis and synthesis: import a PDF or copy a text, and the AI delivers a summary, insights, or rephrases key points.
  • Image interpretation: ChatGPT can now analyse a graph, comment on an interface, identify a product or correct a screenshot with astonishing relevance (thanks GPT-4o).
  • Code and no-code help: it writes scripts, fixes bugs, comments on code or generates Excel formulas, JSON, HTML or Zapier automations.
  • Plugins and advanced tools: the GPT Store lets you install specialised wizards (e.g. for finance, recruitment, design, etc.). You can also create your own bespoke GPT.
  • Memory and personalisation: ChatGPT can now remember your preferences, projects or instructions, so that it can adapt its responses to your working style.
  • Multimodal and voice interface: in 2025, ChatGPT understands voice and images, and interacts like a voice assistant, on both desktop and mobile devices.

Advantages and disadvantages of ChatGPT

ChatGPT has quickly won over professionals from all walks of life, and that's no accident. Its flexibility of use, rich functionality and conversational approach make it an ultra-versatile tool. But this freedom also has its limits.

✅ What we like about ChatGPT

ChatGPT stands out for its ability to adapt to a variety of business contexts, without any technical constraints or specific environment. It's a real work companion, whether you're creating content, providing customer service or coding.

  • Accessible from any browser or mobile application, with no dependency on a particular software suite.
  • Simple, intuitive interface, designed for non-technical users.
  • Excellent generation quality, thanks to GPT-4o, particularly in writing, reformulation and synthesis.
  • Advanced multimodal capabilities: text, image and voice processing in a single interaction.
  • Extensive customisation with memory and custom GPTs (e.g. a made-to-measure HR, legal or accounting assistant).
  • A rich ecosystem with the GPT Store and hundreds of specialist agents.

❌ What may hold some users back

Despite its power, ChatGPT isn't always cut out for "deep" integration into companies. It requires a bit of organisation to fit into existing workflows.

  • No native integration with office suites such as Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace (except via API or plug-in).
  • Sensitive data storage: although OpenAI enhances security, some companies are still cautious about confidentiality issues.
  • Clear framework required: without precise instructions, responses may lack rigour or business consistency.
  • Advanced features reserved for paying packages (ChatGPT Plus or Enterprise), with costs rising according to integration needs.
  • No automatic contextualisation: unlike Copilot, ChatGPT does not spontaneously search your documents or emails (except via manual upload).

Copilot vs ChatGPT: compare features

These two AI assistants were not designed for the same purposes, but they are increasingly coming into contact in the daily lives of professionals. Here's a summary table to help you get a clearer picture before zooming in on specific cases.

Feature Microsoft Copilot ChatGPT (GPT-4o)
Assisted drafting Yes, in Word and Outlook Yes, in all contexts and formats
Data analysis Yes, in Excel Yes, with instructions or documents
Generation of visuals / slides Yes, in PowerPoint Not native, but possible via prompts
Multimodal interaction No (text only) Yes (text, image, audio, code)
Integration with work tools Native with Microsoft 365 Via plugins, API, or manual upload
Customisation Contextual to your files Custom memory + GPTs
Automations / extensions Limited to Microsoft Loop Yes, via GPT Store and plugins
Getting started Immediate if already a Microsoft customer Intuitive, but requires initial configuration

Focus 1: Writing and content generation

Writing an email, a report or a presentation is an everyday task for millions of professionals. And both tools excel in this area, albeit with different approaches.

  • Copilot works in your existing tools (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint), making contextual suggestions based on your existing content. Ideal for reformulating, summarising or writing from a structured brief.
  • ChatGPT is more creative. It can generate a blog article, video script or product sheet from scratch. It also excels at adjusting tone, variants and structural ideas.

👉 To remember

Copilot is perfect for enhancing your existing documents. ChatGPT is your AI pen when you're starting from scratch.

Focus 2: Data analysis and processing

Excel vs AI: a classic duo. But here, the approach is very different.

  • Copilot is integrated into Excel and can suggest graphs, analyses or formulas based on your current data.
  • ChatGPT can also analyse a table (via copy-paste or file), but does not directly manipulate your Excel files. It does, however, excel at explaining formulas, correcting errors or structuring data sets.

👉 To remember

Copilot automates the analysis in Excel. ChatGPT helps you to understand, correct or generate data on demand.

Focus 3: Multimodal use (text, image, audio)

This is GPT-4o's strong point, and a grey area for Copilot.

  • ChatGPT lets you import an image, talk to it or listen to its responses. It's ideal for brainstorming, analysing models or interacting on the move.
  • Microsoft Copilot is limited to text, in a traditional office environment.

👉 To remember

For multimodal use (images, voice, documents), ChatGPT has a clear advantage.

Focus 4: Integration into the working environment

This is where Copilot comes into its own.

  • If you already work in Microsoft 365, Copilot is a natural extension. No tools to install, no new interface to learn.
  • ChatGPT is used separately. You'll need to copy and paste your content, or connect the API via Zapier, Make, or a third-party plugin.

👉 To remember

In terms of integration, Copilot is the winner. It lives directly in your workspace.

Focus 5: Personalisation and adaptability

Both tools have made progress in this area, but with different philosophies.

  • Copilot relies on your files, emails and internal documents to adapt its responses to the business context.
  • ChatGPT can memorise your preferences (with the "memory" function) and, above all, allow you to create personalised GPTs, with precise business instructions and integrated tools.

👉 To remember

Copilot customises using your internal data, while ChatGPT lets you create your own business AI.

Copilot vs ChatGPT: compare prices

On paper, both tools are affordable. In reality, their pricing models are very different. Copilot is aimed primarily at businesses that are already Microsoft 365 customers, while ChatGPT works on an individual subscription basis or via a customised business package.

Offer Microsoft Copilot ChatGPT (GPT-4o)
Free version ❌ None ✅ ChatGPT Free (limited to GPT-3.5)
Individual pay version ✅ $30/month/user (Copilot for Microsoft 365) ✅ $20/month for ChatGPT Plus (GPT-4o)
Enterprise version ✅ Microsoft 365 E3/E5 + $30/month/user ✅ ChatGPT Enterprise (rates on request)
Free trial ❌ None ❌ None on Plus or Enterprise version
Access to plugins / GPTs ❌ Not available ✅ Included on Plus version
Native integration with the suite ✅ Microsoft 365 only ❌ To be integrated manually

👉 To remember

  • Copilot plays in the Microsoft enterprise league, with a high entry ticket but premium integration.
  • ChatGPT is more accessible, modular and flexible... provided you invest in the Plus package or upgrade to Enterprise.

In short: Copilot costs more, but does the job without friction if you're already with Microsoft. ChatGPT requires a bit of set-up, but offers much more open creative and functional power.

    Copilot vs ChatGPT: which interface is more intuitive?

    Because brilliant AI that's hard to use often ends up in a forgotten tab. Here, ergonomics and user experience make all the difference, especially when teams have to get up to speed quickly.

    Copilot and ChatGPT each have their own philosophy:

    • One integrates into existing systems, without disrupting existing habits.
    • The other offers a dedicated interface, designed for exploring, testing and iterating.

    UX criteria Microsoft Copilot ChatGPT (GPT-4o)
    Getting started Immediate if you're already a Microsoft 365 user Very simple and intuitive, even on your own
    Interface Integrated into Word, Excel, Outlook, etc. Dedicated web application/app with tabs
    Accessibility Depends on Microsoft licence + IT activation Accessible from browser or mobile app
    Environment customisation Limited to Microsoft tools Custom GPTs, memory, fine tuning
    Collaboration Native via Teams, SharePoint, Loop Possible via feed sharing or export
    Mobility Works best on desktop Optimised for mobile, including voice and images

    👉 To remember

    Copilot is all about discretion and continuity. It blends in with your tools, and that's what we like: no new app to master, no process to reinvent.

    ChatGPT, on the other hand, offers an interface dedicated to creation, reflection and experimentation. It's fluid, fast and visual. The UX makes you want to test, iterate, go further.

    💡 Result: if you're looking for fluidity in Word or Excel, Copilot is unbeatable. But if you want autonomous, ultra-customisable, exploration-oriented AI, ChatGPT wins hands down.

    Copilot vs ChatGPT: compare integrations

    AI is good. AI connected to your business tools is better. And in this area, Copilot and ChatGPT take very different approaches: Copilot plays the Microsoft monopoly card, while ChatGPT focuses on openness and the ecosystem.

    Here's a comparison based on three key criteria, rated out of 5 stars.

    Criterion Microsoft Copilot ChatGPT (GPT-4o)
    Number of available integrations ★★☆☆☆ (Microsoft 365 only) ★★★★☆ (via plugins and API)
    Easy to set up ★★★★★ (already integrated into apps) ★★★☆☆ (requires configuration)
    Workflow automation ★★☆���☆ (limited to MS tools) ★★★★☆ (Zapier, Make, API, etc.)

    👉 To remember

    Copilot is formidable... if you live in the Microsoft ecosystem. Its integration is fluid, but closed to other tools. For cross-application use (CRM, no-code tools, databases, etc.), you'll have to use your imagination, or go through Power Automate.

    ChatGPT, on the other hand, is banking on openness: API, Zapier integration, specialist plugins... it can interface with the majority of SaaS tools on the market, but this requires a bit of technical set-up.

    💡 To sum up: Copilot is more plug & play, but limited. ChatGPT is more flexible, but requires a bit of wiring.

    When should you choose Copilot or ChatGPT?

    Both tools are powerful, but they do not respond to the same business logic, nor to the same adoption contexts. Here's a look at when each is the natural choice.

    If you're already part of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem...

    Copilot is an obvious strategic choice.

    • You work every day in Word, Excel, Outlook or Teams.
    • Your employees are not very comfortable with "non-Microsoft" tools.
    • You're looking to automate without multiplying the number of platforms.
    • Your sensitive data needs to remain within the Microsoft environment.
    • You want to get started straight away, with no new interface to train.

    In this case, Copilot optimises your existing tools and integrates as a natural extension of your processes. All with a high level of security and compliance.

    If you're looking for creative, autonomous and versatile AI...

    ChatGPT is your everyday ally.

    • You need an AI assistant to create, write, synthesise or code.
    • You often change context (marketing, support, dev, HR, etc.).
    • You want to explore personalised or creative use cases.
    • You're looking for an open solution that can be connected to your business tools.
    • You like plugins, voice, image and experimentation.

    ChatGPT is ideal for agile, cross-functional or fast-growing teams who want to integrate AI into their workflows in a flexible and scalable way.

    What to learn from the Copilot vs ChatGPT battle

    Two AIs, two philosophies. One fits in where you're already working. The other opens up a whole new playing field. Between integrated efficiency and enhanced creativity, the choice depends above all on your ecosystem... and your ambitions.

    Here's a summary table to help you decide:

    Your needs Our recommendation
    Optimise Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams ✅ Microsoft Copilot
    Write, brainstorm or automate outside Microsoft 365 ✅ ChatGPT
    Have AI directly integrated without a new tool ✅ Microsoft Copilot
    Create personalised AI assistants (HR, support, product...) ✅ ChatGPT
    Work on sensitive internal documents ✅ Microsoft Copilot
    Analyse images, listen or speak with AI ✅ ChatGPT (with GPT-4o)
    Interfacing AI with your no-code tools or CRM ✅ ChatGPT (via plugins or API)
    Supporting non-technical users ✅ Microsoft Copilot
    Work on the move with a fluid interface ✅ ChatGPT (web, app, mobile, voice)

    👉 To remember

    Copilot is designed for those who want to accelerate within Microsoft 365, without changing the framework. It does what it promises, but doesn't go beyond its boundaries.

    ChatGPT, on the other hand, is an AI assistant that is freer, more adaptable and more scalable. It requires a little more effort at first, but quickly becomes a must-have tool for anyone who wants to go beyond simple office documents.

    💡 The moral? If you're Microsoft, stay with Microsoft. If you want more freedom, open a ChatGPT tab.

    FAQ about Copilot vs ChatGPT

    1. Is Copilot automatically included with Microsoft 365?

    No. Copilot is a paid option in addition to your Microsoft 365 subscription (E3, E5, Business Standard, etc.). It costs $30/month/user. Activation often goes through your company's IT team.

    2. Can ChatGPT really replace Copilot?

    Not completely. ChatGPT is more versatile and customisable, but is not integrated into your tools like Word or Excel. It's more of a complement than a direct competitor... unless you're outside the Microsoft ecosystem.

    3. Can I use ChatGPT for free in my company?

    Yes, but with significant limitations. The free version is based on GPT-3.5 (less powerful), with no plugins, no memory and no multimodal mode. For serious professional use, it is better to opt for ChatGPT Plus or Enterprise.

    4. Which tool is the most secure for a company?

    Copilot, without hesitation, if your documents are already in Microsoft 365. It respects access rights and internal policies and does not share your data with OpenAI. ChatGPT Enterprise also offers strong guarantees, but the free or Plus version is less regulated.

    5. Can ChatGPT read Excel or PDF files?

    Yes. With GPT-4o, you can drag and drop a file (PDF, spreadsheet, image, etc.) and ask your questions on it. It does not modify it directly like Copilot in Excel, but the analysis is often very relevant.

    6. Can one of the two tools be customised for a specific business use?

    Yes for both, but not in the same way.
    Copilot adapts to the context of your documents, but remains limited to your tools.
    ChatGPT allows you to create a customised GPT (e.g. HR, legal, customer support), with business instructions, a knowledge base and even integrated tools.

    7. Which is best suited to non-technical teams?

    Copilot, because it integrates directly into the known environment (Word, Outlook, Excel) and works without the need to write complex prompts. ChatGPT is more powerful, but requires a bit of learning to be used to its full potential.

    8. Can I use both in parallel?

    Yes, and it's a winning strategy.
    Copilot helps you with your documents, ChatGPT helps you think outside the box, generate ideas, automate tasks or explore new uses.

    Article translated from French