Advancements in machine learning and the more specific deep learning, artificial neural networks, and natural language processing via large language modeling have made chatbots more intelligent and useful. ChatGPT from OpenAI and Copilot from Microsoft are two of the most popular chatbots powered by artificial intelligence. These two can process natural language and provide human-like responses. However, despite having some similarities, these two also have notable differences and respective advantages.
Comparing ChatGPT and Micrsofot Copoilot: A Look Into the Similarities and Differences Between Two Leading AI-Powered Chatbots
The mainstream introduction of ChatGPT in November 2022 and Bing Chat, later known as Copilot, in February 2023 was groundbreaking and disruptive.
ChatGPT opened numerous possibilities as regards the practical applications of generative AI while Copilot revolutionizes how individuals search the internet for information. These two chatbots have also demonstrated the progress made in natural language processing and the advantages of large language models.
Of course, since both are AI-powered chatbots, their respective capabilities and limitations have been compared. Take note of the following points of comparison:
1. Access and Availability
Take note that ChatGPT and Copilot are free AI-powered chatbots. The former is accessible via the dedicated website of OpenAI while the latter can be accessed within the Microsoft Edge web browser installed in Windows, macOS, iOS and iPadOS, or Android operating systems. ChatGPT Plus is a paid version that is faster and more advanced.
It is important to underscore the limitations of each. ChatGPT does not have a theoretical limit but users can experience server downtimes due to high traffic. This results in either the unavailability of the entire service or notable slowdowns and inaccessibility of certain features such as conversation history. ChatGPT Plus promises fewer downtimes.
Microsoft Copilott has critical limitations. A particular user has a limited number of chats per session and per day to prevent overwhelming the servers. The previous cap was 10 chats per session and 120 sessions per day. Microsoft has raised the cap to 30 chats per session on the Edge browser and 5 chats on other browsers. ChatGPT has unlimited chats and sessions.
2. Language Model
A notable similarity between ChatGPT and Copilot is that they are both based on the Generative Pre-trained Transformer or GPT language model developed by OpenAI. The free version of ChatGPT uses GPT-3.5 while the paid ChatGPT Plus version and Copilot use the more advanced GPT-4 multimodal language model.
GPT-4 has notable advantages over the previous generations of GPT. It is specifically a multimodal model that was trained using textual data and imaging data to enable it to process texts and images as inputs. This language model can analyze both written content and non-verbal content such as photographs and visualized data.
3. Prompts and Responses
Both chatbots can understand and process natural language coursed as text-based inputs. They can also provide human-like responses for a conversation that mimics human interactions. ChatGPT supports different languages but it leans more toward the English language. Microsoft Copilot has wider support for more languages.
ChatGPT Plus has several advantages over the free ChatGPT version and Copilot due to its full implementation of GPT-4. It can process a maximum of 25000 words compared to the 2000-character limit of its free version and the word limit of Copilot which is 4000. It also has image recognition for processing image-based prompts.
The responses of ChatGPT and ChatGPT Plus are also lengthier. The former can generate a response that is similar to a short-form content while the latter can be instructed to generate a response comparable to a long-form article. Copilot is more conversational because it generates shorter responses that are limited to less than 10 sentences.
4. Tailoring Conversations
A notable difference between ChatGPT and Copilot is the degree of tailor-fitting the conversation to suit a particular need. Copilot has three predefined conversation styles. These include Creative style for imaginative responses, Balanced for providing a mix of factual and engaging responses, and Precise for more factual and concise responses.
Tailor-fitting conversations in ChatGPT require the use of specific instructions in the prompt. It can even produce responses that use the particular tone of a notable public persona. Responses can also be detailed or simplified. It can be commanded to generate creative responses or technical responses. It is fundamentally more flexible than Copilot.
5. Generative Capabilities
Understanding better the difference between ChatGPT and Copilot requires taking a look at their respective capabilities in generating data and information. Of course, to start, no one is better between the two because each has its unique selling points. Copilot is positioned as a chatbot that complements the Bing web search engine.
Copilot can generate responses to factual questions with superscripts that reference sources. This makes it an ideal tool for research purposes. It has the advantage of having access to web search results and current information. ChatGPT is informative but one of its biggest drawbacks is that it does not cite references to its responses. Its search capabilities can be unlocked through the use of plugins.
However, when it comes to generative capabilities, ChatGPT has notable advantages. Remember that it can generate lengthier responses. It is capable of creative writing, exhaustive editing, detailed code debugging, producing instructions, inductive and deductive reasoning, and through data analysis, among others. Copilot has limited generative capabilities.
Concluding Which One is Better Between ChatGPT and Copilot: Underscoring the Unique Capabilities of Each AI Chatbot
There is no better option between ChatGPT and Copilot. Each has its respective advantages and disadvantages or capabilities and limitations. Their unique characteristics translate to specific use cases or applications.
Copilot is a search engine that operates as a chatbot. It is ideal for finding quick answers to questions. Furthermore, because it cites its references, it is also suitable for research purposes or for tasks that require electronic trailing or searching reference materials. Native access to web search results and current information is its biggest advantage over ChatGPT.
ChatGPT is also ideal for finding quick answers to questions but it does not reference its sources and its results can be inaccurate. It is suitable for generative applications because it has more generative AI capabilities. It can be used as a tool to aid in content creation, data analysis, solving mathematical problems, and coding or programming, among others
Nevertheless, considering the aforementioned, the unique characteristics these chatbots demonstrate the practical applications of artificial intelligence and natural language processing. Both can be used as tools to aid in productivity-related tasks.
