Discovering the Key Distinctions Between Microsoft Copilot and Copilot Pro
The tech giant, Microsoft, has introduced its AI chatbot Copilot as a free-to-use AI experience. You can access this AI bot through the official website or any of its integrated platforms such as Windows 11, Bing, or Microsoft Edge. However, if you're looking for additional features, there's a paid version of this AI - Copilot Pro. The monthly subscription fee for the pro version is $20, which may seem expensive compared to its free counterpart. So, what are the benefits of upgrading to the Pro version?
Interestingly, the free version of Copilot offers a good number of features that compete with those offered by the paid Pro version. Both versions are available across multiple platforms: as a web app, mobile app, and an integrated service within Windows, Bing, and Microsoft Edge. The most noteworthy aspect of Copilot free is its access to GPT-4 Turbo, the second latest model by OpenAI. By selecting "Use GPT-4" before starting a conversation, users can utilize the latest model without any additional costs. This model is the same one available in the Pro version, but with one caveat: free users might experience reduced performance during peak usage times.
Another common feature between the free and Pro versions is their support for plugins. Plugins serve as add-ons providing AI-powered functionalities. For instance, you can use the OpenTable plugin to get recommendations about restaurants in your area and even book a reservation through Copilot. However, note that the number of available plugins stays the same regardless of whether you pay for the Pro version or not.
Copilot Pro does offer more advantages though. The first of these is priority access to GPT-4 Turbo, ensuring that users always have access to the high-performing GPT model, even during peak usage times. This is particularly useful since the Pro version holds its ground when traffic is heavy and Microsoft shifts free users to a slower GPT model.
A significant factor that might influence your decision to pay for Copilot Pro is the AI art generation credits. If you decide to use the Pro version, you'll benefit from a 100 credit-a-day allowance, which enables you to make 85 more AI-generated images compared to free users, who have a daily cap of 15 credits. While this might seem excessive, for those fond of AI-generated art, Pro might be the right fit.
One of the most crucial distinctions between the free and Pro versions is their Microsoft 365 integration. If you invest in the Pro version, Copilot can be used across various Office applications, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and OneNote. It can perform various tasks such as generating first drafts, rewriting text, and creating a summary within these apps.
It's important to remark that if you already possess a Microsoft 365 subscription, you'll be able to access Copilot on both web and desktop platforms. But if you only choose the Pro version, you'll only be able to utilize it on web apps.
Lastly, Copilot Pro users gain the ability to create 'Copilot GPTs', which are custom-built chatbots designed to perform specific tasks. These custom-built GPTs can be developed for a wide range of purposes, from educating users on a given subject to planning meals or generating logos. To start building your custom GPT, navigate to Chats > Copilot GPTs > See all Copilot GPTs > Create a new Copilot GPT. Here, Copilot will guide you through the process, helping you set up your personalized chatbot.
Now, the big question arises: should you opt for Copilot Pro? It depends entirely on your priorities. If having priority access to GPT-4 Turbo during peak usage times and building custom Copilot GPTs appeal to you, then paying the extra fee could be worth it. Similarly, if you enjoy AI-generated art and want more than the 15 free requests per day, then the Pro version might suit your needs. Otherwise, the free version should suffice with its access to the GPT-4 Turbo model, plugins support, and AI art tools.
As someone who doesn't heavily rely on AI, I'm not very keen on adding an additional $20 to my monthly bill for a subscription. Although the extra perks are enticing, particularly the Copilot feature in Microsoft 365 apps, as a chatbot, you can still enjoy the core features of the free version of Copilot. If you're only interested in casually playing with AI and don't require help from a robot in applications like Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, the free Copilot version will suffice.
However, Microsoft is extending a one-month free trial for Copilot Pro for new clients. For those who want to test out the additional features, you can sign up for the trial and then remember to cancel it if the enhancements aren't necessary for your requirements.
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In comparison to the free version, Copilot Pro provides priority access to the advanced GPT-4 Turbo model, ensuring smooth performance even during peak usage times. When considering an upgrade, you'll also gain up to 100 daily AI art generation credits, allowing for more extensive use of AI-generated images.
