ChatGPT vs Copilot for Microsoft 365: Key Similarities and Differences

Artificial intelligence has been one of the headline technologies of the last few years. After all, it can do almost anything required and constantly evolves to be more refined. One of the most popular ways artificial intelligence is used is by using large language models (LLMs).

These AI chat tools allow you to talk to an AI who will help you with whatever you prompt. OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot for 365 are the most popular tools.

While these two tools are similar, they also have differences that are very apparent in the workplace. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences and similarities between ChatGPT and Copilot for Microsoft 365. We’ll examine both tools and how they compare to one another.

Overview of ChatGPT

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, was released in November 2022 and took the world by storm. It was the first widely available large language model (LLM) and revolutionised AI, defining how it would be used worldwide for years to come.

What does this mean? ChatGPT was the first tool released. You type in a prompt and get a response.?

The current version of ChatGPT, GPT 4.0, is the latest version of GPT, and it can create indistinguishable content from human-written text. Compared to past versions of GPT, GPT 4.0 is more knowledgeable and better at using prompts to find the information you want.?

In addition, GPT 4.0 has more recent training data, whereas past versions of GPT had a training data cutoff of 2021. GPT 4.0's cutoff date is April 2023, meaning that it’s aware of events up to that date.

Overview of Copilot for Microsoft 365

Copilot for Microsoft 365 is essentially Microsoft’s version of ChatGPT. After backing OpenAI in 2023, Microsoft set out to integrate GPT into its tools.

The application takes the concept of ChatGPT to new heights. Instead of being a large language model, Copilot for Microsoft 365 is designed to enhance its capabilities. Moreover, Copilot uses organisational data to do more than give information. It works with your data to create documents, analyse spreadsheets and emails, and more.

Essentially, Copilot for Microsoft 365 is tailor-made for businesses within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem to take advantage of the power of AI in their business. Copilot is designed with businesses in mind, with options for enterprise rather than just being a tool for anyone to access.

In addition, Copilot for Microsoft 365 is available within every Microsoft 365 application, meaning that you don’t have to open another app or website to access your virtual assistant.

Key Similarities

Powered by OpenAI

ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are powered by OpenAI’s GPT, meaning that the underlying tech that powers one also powers the other. This means you’re using the same AI for both, meaning the decision between the two has much more to do with the different features provided than the AI quality.

User Experience

The user experience of both tools is nearly identical. It’s the same concept of entering a prompt into a box and receiving a response, which is part of the simplicity of AI LLMs.

Copilot and ChatGPT have identical user interfaces, meaning there will be no massive differences between them.

The Art of Prompting

Both applications rely on prompting, creating a prompt to ensure that your response is exactly what you want from the LLM. This is a vital part of using LLMs, as the art of prompting is a skill that helps you get the most out of them.

Key Differences

Integration with Microsoft 365

The biggest draw of Copilot is how it integrates with Microsoft 365. You have a tool that can do anything with your existing Microsoft 365 applications. Several features integrate with applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc., using your organisational data.

Data Security and Compliance

A significant difference between ChatGPT and Copilot is that ChatGPT uses public data to train its AI, meaning that any data you put into the program will be used to train the LLM. Conversely, Copilot lets you have a private implementation of GPT, meaning your information is protected.

Customisation and Scalability

As Copilot uses organisational data, you can easily tailor it to work for you. ChatGPT is far less customisable as it is simply an online tool. You can use Copilot to edit things throughout your business and fuel your LLM with relevant data.?

In addition, Copilot is scalable within your organisation, meaning that you can easily adjust how much you pay for Copilot throughout your business. ChatGPT is a fixed subscription per user, making it far more challenging to scale up, as you’d need to set up many different ChatGPT accounts to use ChatGPT premium.

How We Can Help

Artificial intelligence is a vital part of the modern business world. Using LLMs to empower your business with artificial intelligence is essential and can change how your business works in several ways.

ChatGPT and Copilot for Microsoft 365 are massive players in the AI world, but their key differences set them apart. Ultimately, Microsoft’s offering is far better for businesses.

Contact us today if you want to start with Microsoft 365 but don’t know where to begin. We’re here to help and will ensure you have everything you need to get started with AI in your business.?

Please reach out to us and see how we can help.