General AI chatbots
Microsoft Copilot: review, pricing, data and alternatives
Microsoft Copilot helps people ask questions, search for information on the web, and generate images. It also summarizes files and accesses connected services when permission is granted. A free tier exists; the first paid plan costs $9.99 per month. Access and transparency score: 63/100, #10 of 20 in its category.
What is Microsoft Copilot?
Microsoft Copilot helps people ask questions, search for information on the web, and generate images. It also summarizes files and accesses connected services when permission is granted.
According to its documentation, Microsoft Copilot lets you:
- answer questions
- search for information on the web
- generate images
- summarize files
- access connected services with permission
We file it under General AI chatbots, the category of tools to chat with a general-purpose AI, and it also overlaps with aI search engines and aI image generators. The category lists 20 verified tools on this site.
The publisher is Microsoft Corporation, based in United States. The service launched in 2023, which gives it some track record.
Who is it for?
It is for anyone who wants to chat with a general-purpose AI.
Microsoft Copilot is a good candidate if:
- you want to try before paying
- you also work from your phone
Before deciding, run a trial on a real task and measure the time saved: it is the only criterion that really counts.
How much does Microsoft Copilot cost?
Pricing model: freemium (limited free use, then paid). A free plan is offered, usually limited in volume or features.
The first paid plan costs $9.99 per month (Microsoft 365 Personal, a subscription including higher Copilot limits than free access), according to the pricing page, checked on October 24, 2026.
Per month, that is close to the category median ($9.5 per month, based on tools with a published price).
To estimate what the same work would cost done directly with an AI model, use our API price calculator. Prices change often: always check the official site before subscribing.
Data and privacy
The publisher does not clearly state where data is hosted. Assume your content may leave your region.
For professional use, check that a data processing agreement (DPA) is offered, and do not send customers' personal data or confidential documents without one.
Exporting your content: yes (details on the official site). Being able to get your data back makes switching tools easier later.
Three habits apply to every AI tool:
- turn off the use of your content for training if the option exists
- use a work account separate from your personal account
- review everything the tool produces before publishing or sending it
Platforms, languages and API
Microsoft Copilot runs on: web browser, Windows, macOS, iPhone and iPad, and Android.
The interface is available in 9 languages.
API availability is not documented.
How we scored it
Our 63/100 score does not judge output quality: it measures what can be publicly verified about access to the tool, its openness and how far the publisher can be trusted.
| Criterion | Points | What counts |
|---|---|---|
| Access | 30/30 | free tier, published price, French interface |
| Openness | 10/30 | API, data export, open code |
| Trust | 23/40 | identified publisher, declared hosting, age, presence in reference lists |
The full calculation is explained on our method page.
Comparison with alternatives
Microsoft Copilot against other tools in the general AI chatbots category:
Verdict
Microsoft Copilot is a decent option; compare its price and terms with the category leaders.
Strengths
- Free tier to try it
- Established since 2023
- Available on many platforms
Limitations
- Data hosting not disclosed
Avoid if…
- You handle sensitive personal data without a processing agreement
Alternatives
Categories and jobs
Learn more
Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Copilot free?
Yes, a free plan exists, with usage limits. The first paid plan costs $9.99 per month.
Where is Microsoft Copilot data stored?
The publisher does not clearly say so in its public documentation.
Does Microsoft Copilot have an API?
It is not documented.
What are the alternatives to Microsoft Copilot?
In the same category: Gemini, ChatGPT, LibreChat, and Claude.
Microsoft Copilot or Gemini: which one to choose?
Microsoft Copilot starts at $9.99 per month, Gemini at $4.99 per month and our score is 63/100 for Microsoft Copilot and 85/100 for Gemini. Try both on the same task before paying.
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Neutrality. No affiliate links. No vendor pays to be reviewed, rated or ranked. Reviews are directed by François Chollet, neutral and factual, and every data point is dated and sourced. How we score