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GitHub Copilot

Free

GitHub Copilot uses the OpenAI Codex to suggest code and entire functions in real-time, right from your editor.

FreeFree tier
Inputs: code, textOutputs: code
Type
Open Source
Founded
2008
Company
GitHub

About GitHub Copilot

GitHub Copilot is an AI-powered code completion and development tool that integrates seamlessly into the developer workflow. It offers real-time code suggestions, entire function generation, and agent-based task automation across editors, the CLI, chat apps, and custom MCP servers. Copilot supports multiple leading large language models (including Haiku 4.5, GPT-5 mini, Claude, and Codex), allowing users to choose based on speed, accuracy, or cost. It provides features such as agent mode for proposing and validating edits, cloud agents for autonomous task execution, code review assistance, and Copilot Spaces for sharing project context. The tool is available under a range of plans from a free tier (2,000 completions/month) to enterprise-grade offerings with governance, audit logs, and IP indemnity. GitHub Copilot is part of the GitHub platform, serving over 180 million developers worldwide.

Key Features

Real-time code completion and next-edit suggestions
Agent mode for proposing edits and validating files within the IDE
Cloud agents that autonomously plan, explore, and execute tasks
Support for multiple LLMs including Haiku 4.5, GPT-5 mini, Claude, and OpenAI Codex
Copilot Spaces to create a shared knowledge base from docs and repositories
Copilot CLI for command-line assistance
Code review integration with AI-powered suggestions
Copilot Autofix for automated security vulnerability remediation
MCP server integration with enterprise allow-list controls
Detailed audit logs and agent governance for enterprise plans

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Significant productivity gains; Grupo Boticário reported a 94% increase
  • Works across multiple environments (IDE, CLI, GitHub.com, chat apps)
  • Choose from a variety of optimized LLMs for different needs
  • Generous free tier for individuals and verified students
  • Enterprise-grade controls including audit logs and IP indemnity
  • Seamlessly integrated into the GitHub ecosystem
Cons
  • Free tier limited to 2,000 completions per month
  • AI suggestions may require manual review and editing
  • Advanced features and premium models require paid subscriptions
  • Enterprise pricing may be costly for large organizations

Best For

Writing and completing code in real time within popular IDEsAutomating repetitive coding tasks and boilerplate generationExplaining unfamiliar code and debugging with conversational AIPerforming autonomous research and implementation of featuresReviewing pull requests and suggesting improvementsFixing security vulnerabilities with AI-autofix guidanceStandardizing team knowledge and onboarding through shared spacesIntegrating AI assistants into custom development workflows via MCP

FAQ

What is GitHub Copilot?
GitHub Copilot is an AI pair programmer that provides code completions, agent-based task automation, and code review suggestions, supporting multiple LLMs like Haiku, GPT-5 mini, Claude, and Codex.
How much does GitHub Copilot cost?
GitHub Copilot offers a free tier (2,000 completions/month), Pro ($10/user/month), Pro+ ($39/user/month), Max ($100/user/month), Business ($19/user/month), and Enterprise ($39/user/month).
Which editors and environments does GitHub Copilot support?
Copilot works in IDEs, the CLI, GitHub.com, chat apps, and custom MCP servers.
Can I use GitHub Copilot for free?
Yes, there is a free tier with 2,000 completions per month and access to certain models. Verified students get a dedicated student plan.