Microsoft Copilot vs ChatGPT: AI Business Tool Comparison

Most modern organizations are leveraging artificial intelligence in some capacity. But AI isn’t just one tool—there are countless programs currently being used and in development that employ artificial intelligence functionalities. And while the world of AI is evolving constantly, two giants stand out, particularly in the business world: ChatGPT and Microsoft 365 Copilot.

These AI-powered large language models aren’t just technological marvels; they’re also actively reshaping how businesses operate, communicate, and innovate. Thus, organizations are faced with the ultimate decision: 

Which AI tool is right for your business needs?

Below, we explore the unique capabilities and distinct differences between the two tools to help you make the right choice for your specific business context. Let's unravel the mystery and unlock the potential of AI together.

A Closer Look at ChatGPT

ChatGPT, the brainchild of OpenAI, is a genius when it comes to natural language processing. In other words, it understands conversational queries and remarks like a seasoned pro, effortlessly generating text that’s intended to sound just like a human. Drafting emails, answering user questions, and lending a hand in creative writing are all in its repertoire. Its vast knowledge spans various subjects, from sports to science. 

This tool isn't just any old AI solution; it's a game changer for businesses looking to speed up administrative tasks. This technology is:

• Born from innovation: ChatGPT is derived from the powerful generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) series and meticulously fine-tuned to comprehend and replicate humanlike conversations. It's akin to having a language virtuoso right at your fingertips!
• A master of language: Trained on a vast trove of text from across the web, ChatGPT isn't just smart; it's like a walking encyclopedia that can respond. Whether it's crafting emails, generating reports, or spinning creative content, it does so with just enough human flair.
• Adaptable and ever-evolving: ChatGPT is customizable to your business needs; it’s constantly learning and evolving to ensure it stays on top of its game. This includes the ability to be trained in specific areas of business or industries.

Why Businesses Love ChatGPT

For one, ChatGPT is the ultimate ally in enhancing customer experience, from handling FAQs to offering around-the-clock support. It’s also a content creation wizard, capable of generating anything from snappy marketing copy to insightful reports. Plus, ChatGPT is designed to sift through mountains of text data, offering you nuggets of gold in the form of actionable insights.

ChatGPT now comes in three distinct versions while also offering Team and Enterprise plans:

ChatGPT Free

This free variant is primarily aimed at those who wish to explore and test ChatGPT's capabilities. Users can easily create an account to start interacting with ChatGPT and get help with everyday tasks. It's important to note that the free version has certain limitations in performance and doesn’t have internet browsing capabilities.

ChatGPT Plus

For users seeking slightly more advanced performance, this pricing tier provides subscribers with priority access to new features and OpenAI's latest and most sophisticated GPT models. For $20 per month, subscribers have extended limits on messaging, file uploads, data analysis, and image generation.

ChatGPT Pro

The premium version of ChatGPT is reserved for Pro subscribers, who receive unlimited access to all features, modes, and research for $200 per month.

Team

For either $25 per user per month (if billed annually) or $30 per user per month (if billed monthly), users have access to everything included in the Plus version and additional features designed to supercharge and personalize your team’s workspaces.

Enterprise

This plan offers higher message limits, enhanced support and account management, and a host of other capabilities backed by enterprise-grade AI employing multiple reasoning models. Prices vary.

All About Microsoft 365 Copilot

Microsoft 365 Copilot effortlessly integrates with and operates within Microsoft apps, leveraging the robust capabilities of the Microsoft search engine for information retrieval and the Microsoft graph for context and relationship data.

What's more, Copilot respects the unique access permissions of each user, ensuring that it generates prompts based on the information you have exclusive access to. This uber-useful feature protects customers from copyright infringement lawsuits (a major concern for OpenAI) and provides an additional layer of defense against accusations of plagiarism or intellectual property theft, making it easier to safeguard your reputation. 

The primary capabilities of Copilot in Microsoft 365 include:

• Seamless integration: Imagine an AI that fluently converses with your Office suite, from Word and Excel to PowerPoint and Outlook. Microsoft 365 Copilot is seamlessly integrated, providing AI-powered efficiency right where you need it.
• AI-powered productivity: Using advanced algorithms, Copilot understands your work context, offering suggestions, drafting documents, and automating repetitive tasks. It's like having a personal AI assistant who knows your work style inside out.
• Effortless document creation: Draft emails, reports, or presentations in a snap. Copilot turns your ideas into polished content, saving you time and creative energy.
• Data analysis made easy: Struggle with Excel? Copilot transforms complex data into insightful, easy-to-understand charts and summaries.
• Streamlined workflows: It’s not just about doing tasks; it's about doing them smarter. Copilot helps you manage your calendar, organize meetings, and stay on top of your to-do list with proactive suggestions.

Why Businesses Love Microsoft 365 Copilot 

With Copilot, your teams can reduce the time spent on routine tasks, allowing them to focus on strategic, high-value activities. Its improved accuracy also minimizes human errors, meaning higher-quality output in your business documents and communications.

Microsoft 365 Copilot also offers a customized user experience that adapts to individual working styles and preferences, making it a versatile tool for a diverse workforce.

There are three primary pricing plans for Microsoft 365 Business and Microsoft 365 Copilot:

Basic

For $36 per user per month, billed annually, this plan provides access to apps and services for businesses just getting started, including user management, AI-powered chat, storage, support, and more. 

Standard

For $42.50 per user per month, billed annually, the standard offering includes all Basic features, plus desktop versions of major apps, video tools, and collaborative workspaces. 

Premium

Microsoft's premium plan includes all Standard features and advanced cybersecurity services, such as enterprise-grade protection, detection, and identity management for $52 per user per month, billed annually.

ChatGPT vs. Microsoft 365 Copilot: What Makes Them Different?

Despite their similarities, 365 Copilot and ChatGPT have distinct roles to play in the business world.

ChatGPT is like a Swiss Army knife: versatile enough to handle a wide range of applications. On the other hand, Microsoft 365 Copilot is the perfect sidekick for Microsoft Teams and Viva experiences, enhancing their functionality in remarkable ways. It's important to note that while Copilot is a game changer, it's not here to replace human assistants. Instead, it works hand in hand with them, amplifying their capabilities.

Curious to see their functionalities side by side? Let's dive deeper into the unique features that set these two tools apart.

Choosing the Right Tool: ChatGPT or Microsoft 365 Copilot?

Ultimately, determining whether to use ChatGPT or Microsoft 365 Copilot depends on your distinct business requirements and operational context. Each tool has its own set of advantages, catering to different aspects of business functionality.

If you’re still not sure which AI tool is suitable for your organization, consider the following suggestions:

Assess Your Core Needs

If you require versatile language processing for tasks such as content creation, customer service, and data interpretation, ChatGPT is a good choice. Its remarkable ability to handle a wide range of language-based tasks makes it an invaluable asset for diverse content applications.

Evaluate Your Ecosystem

If your business is already heavily integrated with Microsoft 365, Copilot provides a seamless and enhanced interaction to optimize your team's experiences with the ecosystem. It's particularly effective at streamlining productivity and maximizing the benefits of Microsoft applications.

Consider the User Experience

ChatGPT's versatile approach to language tasks makes it user-friendly for a wide range of individuals, while 365 Copilot’s specialized functionality within the Microsoft suite is perfect for those who are already familiar and comfortable in that environment.

Future-Proof Your Business

Both tools represent the cutting edge of AI technology. Consider your current needs and how each tool might evolve to meet future challenges and opportunities in your industry.

Ultimately, the decision isn't about choosing the “better” tool but selecting the one that aligns best with your business objectives and workflow requirements.

Implementing and Optimizing Your Chosen AI Business Tool

Whether you go with ChatGPT's versatility in handling language tasks or Microsoft 365 Copilot’s specialized functionality within the Microsoft ecosystem, your goal should be to position your business for success in a world increasingly integrated with AI.

Ntiva’s team of experts can guide you through the processes of choosing, implementing, and optimizing the best AI tool for your business. Get in touch with us to ensure you’re making the right decision to support the future of your organization.