Microsoft Copilot vs Google Bard: Which AI Is Better?

Copilot and Bard, recently rebranded as Gemini, are two of the leading generative artificial intelligence tools developed by tech giants Microsoft and Google. Both are designed to enhance productivity and provide support across a wide range of applications.

Copilot is deeply integrated into the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, focusing on optimizing the work environment. Google Gemini, on the other hand, is a versatile platform with a strong emphasis on content generation.

In this article, we will compare their main features, strengths, and limitations to help determine which solution might best suit your needs.

Microsoft Copilot vs Google Bard: a brief introduction

Artificial intelligence has transformed the way we work over the past few years, enabling almost anyone to write code, create art, and even make investments. For professional users, hobbyists, small and medium-sized businesses, and large organizations alike, AI tools offer advanced capabilities to produce high-quality content from a simple user prompt.

Finding an AI to write a formal email or design a birthday card is no longer a challenge. However, when it comes to the workplace, where the goal is to find an AI that integrates with existing productivity tools and avoids constant app switching, only two major contenders come to mind: Microsoft’s Copilot and Google’s Bard, recently rebranded as Gemini.

Both can help write an email or a business letter within programs you may already use, such as Word in Microsoft 365 or Docs in Google Workspace.

Interestingly, both come with the same price tag (around 20 US dollars per month).

Despite this, the two AI platforms differ significantly in terms of capabilities.

For any business considering the adoption of one of these big tech tools, a thorough comparison is thus essential.

In the next sections, we’ll explore how Microsoft Copilot and the former Google Bard compare in terms of features, pricing, performance, and integration with their respective ecosystems.

What are Copilot and Google Bard (now Gemini)?

Before diving into the actual comparison between Copilot and Bard, let’s take a moment to better understand the two contenders in this tech showdown. This will give us a clearer picture of the situation and help anyone who may have missed a few updates catch up.

Before exploring each platform, it’s useful to establish some common ground.

AI chatbots are powered by a subfield of artificial intelligence called Natural Language Processing (NLP). NLP equips machines with the ability to understand, interpret, and generate human language. Chatbots use NLP models trained on vast datasets of text and code to interact with users and respond to commands effectively.

Here is an overview of the key capabilities that make a chatbot effective:

• ‍Natural Language Understanding (NLU): the ability to process and understand the intent and meaning behind a user’s input. This includes tasks such as entity recognition (identifying key elements like names, places, dates), sentiment analysis (understanding the emotional tone of a request), and intent classification (determining the user’s goal).
  ‍
• ‍Dialogue Management: tracks the flow of the conversation, remembers past interactions, and adapts responses accordingly. This ensures the conversation remains consistent and relevant over time.
  ‍
• ‍Natural Language Generation (NLG): produces human-like, relevant, and informative text responses. This involves sentence planning, word selection, and ensuring fluency to make the generated text sound natural.

Gemini (formerly Google Bard)

Gemini for Google Workspace is an AI assistant designed for businesses and integrated into Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and more. This tool serves as a productivity aid, helping employees with tasks like writing client emails, project plans, and job postings.

This assistant supports five main use cases:

• Help me write
• Help me organize
• Create an image
• Help me connect
• Help me build an app

These functions boost productivity across Google services like Docs, Sheets, Gmail, Slides, Meet, and AppSheet. They assist employees in drafting text, building project trackers, generating AI images, enhancing video and audio quality during meetings, and developing apps without writing any code.

Gemini can help speed up projects and reduce the time spent on everyday tasks. However, its current capabilities are not as advanced as those of Copilot for Microsoft 365. It’s more of a tool to streamline and optimize tasks already performed within Google Workspace.

To use the tool within an organization, a Google Workspace plan is required. The assistant is now available to businesses of all sizes, with a free trial option available.

Two Gemini plans are offered for businesses: Gemini Business and Gemini Enterprise.

The chatbot Gemini Advanced is Google’s paid offering, powered by the advanced Gemini Ultra 1.0 language model (LLM), the most powerful developed by Google to date. Bundled with benefits from Google One, the company promotes the Google One AI Premium tier for individual consumers. Gemini Advanced is also available for personal accounts, but not for work accounts or in certain countries.

Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft has been part of a strategic partnership with ChatGPT’s parent company, OpenAI, from 2021 until the summer of 2024. This collaboration allowed Microsoft to deeply integrate GPT LLM models into many of its products, including the Edge browser, the Designer app, and its Microsoft 365 productivity suite.

The first version of Microsoft’s GPT-based chatbot was called Bing Chat, but the name was later updated to Copilot (a brand now used across the entire Microsoft AI product line).

The paid version for businesses and enterprises, known as Copilot for Microsoft 365, is available to organizations that use Microsoft 365 and opt for the upgrade.

The AI assistant is integrated into Microsoft 365 apps such as Teams, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, Meet, and others, helping employees streamline tasks like summarizing research or staying focused during meetings.

Copilot can also search and gather data across all Microsoft 365 documents, emails, calendars, presentations, contacts, and more. It analyzes user behavior within Microsoft apps, offering suggestions and shortcuts to boost productivity.

Microsoft’s digital AI assistant provides organizations with a complete context across apps and services within their Microsoft 365 tenants. With recent updates and expansions, Copilot also includes domain-specific Agents trained and developed for business areas such as finance, marketing, and customer service, offered through separate plans.

It can be accessed by:

• Enterprise customers must have a license for Microsoft 365 E3, Microsoft 365 E5, Office 365 E3, or Office 365 E5.
• Business customers must have Microsoft 365 Business Standard or Business Premium, or versions of these suites that don’t include Microsoft Teams.
• Education customers must have a license for Microsoft 365 A3 or Microsoft 365 A5 for faculty.
• Consumers are not currently eligible to purchase Copilot for Microsoft 365.

Copilot for Microsoft 365 is available in two plans: one for businesses and one for enterprises. It is also included in other Microsoft Copilot plans, such as Copilot for Sales and Copilot for Service.

Microsoft Copilot Pro uses the GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo LLMs, providing users with priority access and faster performance during periods of high demand. In addition to exclusive access to GPT-4, Copilot Pro users benefit from enhanced AI-powered productivity and creativity features in Microsoft applications.

Microsoft Copilot vs Google Bard: differences, similarities, and pricing

Bard (now known as Gemini) is designed to fully leverage Google’s infrastructure, combining advanced search technologies with natural language processing to handle complex questions and deliver detailed insights.

One of Gemini’s technical strengths lies in its use of highly trained large language models developed by Google. These models can extract and synthesize information from a wide range of sources, generating responses that address intricate and multi-layered questions.

Gemini’s ability to analyze and structure different types of content makes it an excellent choice for advanced research tasks. It supports analytical work and helps professionals save time when dealing with large data sets or extensive text-based information.

The system also uses advanced indexing and semantic processing technologies, making it easier to find related content and return highly accurate answers, even in complex scenarios like industry analyses or academic research.

Copilot, on the other hand, is deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem, offering direct access to tools such as Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook. This allows Copilot not only to respond to complex queries, but also to actively participate in workflows within Microsoft applications and documents.

From a technical perspective, Copilot leverages the Microsoft Graph platform to access real-time business data.

This capability allows it to generate detailed reports, perform analyses, create summaries, and even provide suggestions based on the current context and team priorities. Copilot’s ability to dynamically connect to business data enables it to keep information up to date without disrupting workflows.

Microsoft designed Copilot with a “fully integrated” philosophy.

Rather than simply answering questions, Copilot can handle complex processes such as automated writing and data analysis in Excel, generating dynamic presentations in PowerPoint, or drafting structured emails in Outlook.

This deep level of access and connectivity makes Copilot more of a “work companion” than a traditional assistant, making it especially useful for teams managing collaborative processes and multi-level projects.

In addition, while both tools emphasize security, Microsoft provides a comprehensive suite of enterprise-grade compliance controls. These include robust security standards and data governance systems designed to protect organizational confidentiality and meet international regulations. Copilot was developed with a strong focus on privacy, offering advanced administrative controls and customizable security configurations tailored to business needs.

Here where Copilot excels over Bard:

• ‍Integrated enterprise environments and everyday productivity: Thanks to its deep integration with Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook), Copilot is a powerful tool for anyone working within the Microsoft ecosystem. It’s particularly valuable for teams that need seamless collaboration, effective communication management, and structured project organization. With real-time access to business data through Microsoft Graph, users can generate dynamic reports, update documents, and build presentations using the most current information, enhancing collaborative workflows.
  ‍
• ‍Automation of administrative and operational tasks: Copilot is designed to handle repetitive and time-consuming tasks such as drafting emails, scheduling meetings, and tracking project activities. By automating these operations, it reduces the manual burden on users and helps improve time management and team efficiency.
  ‍
• ‍Proactive support in decision-making processes: Copilot offers contextual and proactive suggestions while users work within Microsoft tools. This helps optimize decisions, actions, and daily priorities. Its ability to deliver insights during workflows makes Copilot Pro especially suitable for managers and leaders who need to make quick, data-driven decisions and benefit from an assistant that adapts to project contexts.
  ‍
• ‍Security and compliance for large organizations: Data protection and regulatory compliance are top priorities for large enterprises. Copilot offers advanced controls for security and permissions management, ensuring data confidentiality and compliance with regulations. This is essential for companies in regulated sectors like finance or healthcare, where meeting security standards is critical.

And here where Bard (Gemini) excels over Copilot:

• ‍Advanced research and complex data analysis: Gemini is particularly well-suited for users working in environments that require the processing of large volumes of textual information, such as researchers and academics. Its ability to analyze complex content and answer detailed questions delivers high-level insights, making it ideal for uncovering correlations and providing deep semantic responses.
  ‍
• ‍Synthesis and generation of structured content: Gemini’s natural language processing capabilities are designed to provide in-depth, detailed responses. This makes it useful for tasks such as producing complex documents, industry reports, and academic research. It’s a powerful tool for users who need assistance with writing complex texts or generating well-structured content.
  ‍
• ‍Multi-source access and analysis: Gemini’s semantic processing technology enables it to combine and synthesize information from multiple sources, offering a comprehensive view of a given topic. This makes it especially useful for professionals who need to consult and compare many sources or build a nuanced understanding of a specific subject.
  ‍
• ‍Scientific and academic research fields: For researchers and scholars, Gemini is a valuable tool for exploring highly complex topics. It responds to multi-layered questions with a strong understanding of context. Gemini’s ability to comprehend and address sophisticated queries makes it ideal for scientific research, where accuracy and depth are crucial.

Pricing and availability for professional versions

Bard and Microsoft Copilot are currently available at competitive prices.

Both services can be subscribed to for $20 per month, providing access to a comparable suite of productivity tools and services.

Google is currently running a promotion that offers a two-month free trial for web and mobile users, though it’s unclear how long this offer will remain available. Microsoft, on the other hand, offers a one-month free trial of Copilot Pro for those who install the Copilot mobile app on iOS or Android devices.

Additionally, Copilot Pro is also available at a higher tier for $30 per month. This subscription includes admin-level features that are not available in Bard’s “pro” versions.

Signing up for either service is straightforward. Just like a Google account and email are required to subscribe to any Gemini service (free or paid), a Microsoft email is required to subscribe to Copilot. If you don’t already have a Google or Microsoft email, signing up is free, and once registered, you can start exploring the free versions of both chatbots (keeping in mind their respective limitations).

Conclusion

So, here we are at the question many are likely asking: is Copilot better, or is Google Bard the stronger option? As always, the answer is not black and white; it depends.

But what does it depend on in this case?

Simply put, it depends on the use context. In this particular scenario (professional and enterprise use) Copilot still has a clear edge over its competitors, including Google Bard.

While Bard (now Gemini) is an impressive technology, its strengths are not yet fully aligned with the needs of the business world. It’s better suited for non-professional environments where full integration with the tools modern workers rely on is not required.

Copilot, on the other hand, was built on a philosophy that makes it far more useful in office and enterprise settings.

Its seamless integration with Microsoft’s widely adopted productivity tools makes it the natural choice for companies already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the capabilities of its AI assistant will only strengthen its position in the business world.

Could things shift dramatically in the future? Anything is possible.

But for now, if you're looking for a solid AI solution that is ready to use and easily integrates with your existing digital infrastructure, Copilot remains the most reliable choice.

FAQ on Microsoft Copilot vs Google Bard (now Gemini)

What is Microsoft Copilot and what is it for?

Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant integrated into Microsoft 365 products (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook, etc.). It helps with daily business tasks such as writing, analysis, organization, and meetings. It uses GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo models and accesses real-time business data via Microsoft Graph.

What is Google Bard and what’s the difference with Gemini?

Google Bard has been renamed Gemini. It’s an AI assistant built into Google Workspace (Gmail, Docs, Sheets, etc.), designed to support productivity through features like writing, organization, image creation, and automation. The premium version, Gemini Advanced, runs on the Gemini Ultra 1.0 model.

Which tool is more suitable for business environments?

Microsoft Copilot is better suited for business use thanks to its deep integration with Microsoft 365, workflow automation, real-time data access, and enterprise-grade security and compliance features.

Which AI is better for research and complex data analysis?

Google Gemini excels in advanced research, semantic analysis, and content synthesis. It’s ideal for academic, scientific, or multi-source analytical work.

How much do Copilot and Gemini cost?

Both tools cost approximately $20/month. Microsoft Copilot Pro also has a premium tier at $30/month. Free trials are available: 1 month for Microsoft, 2 months for Google (offers may vary).

Can I use Microsoft Copilot with any account?

No. Copilot for Microsoft 365 is only available to business and education customers with eligible licenses (e.g., Microsoft 365 E3/E5, Business Standard/Premium, A3/A5). It’s not available for personal accounts.

Is Gemini included for free in Google Workspace?

No. Gemini is offered under two paid business plans: Gemini Business and Gemini Enterprise. Gemini Advanced is part of the Google One AI Premium subscription for personal users, but not always available for business accounts.

Which AI is better for writing and content generation?

Both tools support writing. Gemini is well-suited for creating complex and in-depth content. Copilot, on the other hand, is better for in-app productivity tasks within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Which is better: Copilot or Gemini?

It depends on your needs. Copilot is the safer, more practical choice for companies already using Microsoft 365. Gemini is a strong option for research and content-heavy tasks outside of structured office workflows.