AI coding · Head to head
OpenAI Codex vs GitHub Copilot: which is better?
Short answer
OpenAI Codex costs less in the first year ($96 vs $600). Pick OpenAI Codex for coding agent bundled with ChatGPT; pick GitHub Copilot for IDE autocomplete and agents inside GitHub.
| Fact | OpenAI Codex | GitHub Copilot | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Coding agent bundled with ChatGPT | IDE autocomplete and agents inside GitHub | — |
| Free plan | Yes, limited Codex access | Yes, limited chat and agent usage | Tie |
| Entry plan | Go: $8 / mo | Pro: $10 / seat / mo | — |
| Mid plan | Plus: $20 / mo | Pro+: $39 / seat / mo | — |
| Top plan | Pro: $100 / mo | Max: $100 / seat / mo | — |
| 1st year | $96 | $600 | OpenAI Codex |
| Platforms | Web, macOS, Windows, API | Web, Chrome extension, API, macOS, Windows, Linux | GitHub Copilot |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, OpenAI Codex or GitHub Copilot?
Neither stands out: OpenAI Codex: Yes, limited Codex access; GitHub Copilot: Yes, limited chat and agent usage.
Should you pick OpenAI Codex or GitHub Copilot?
Pick OpenAI Codex if
- you want coding agent bundled with ChatGPT
- the free plan is enough (limited Codex access)
Pick GitHub Copilot if
- you want IDE autocomplete and agents inside GitHub
- the free plan is enough (limited chat and agent usage)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| OpenAI Codex pricing | chatgpt.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| GitHub Copilot pricing | github.com/features/copilot/plans | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare