The AI-first code editor β where the agent doesn't assist, it lives
AI CodingGitHub Copilot Review
Your AI pair programmer, living inside every editor you already use
Our Verdict
Still the safest, cheapest default for working developers β it lives where you already code and the autocomplete alone pays for the $10. But the metered-billing switch means heavy agent users need to watch credits, not just code. For pure agent workflows, dedicated editors have pulled ahead.
Pricing shown below is approximate and may have changed β always confirm on the official site.
π Key Features
- Inline code completions in the editor, unlimited on every paid plan
- Next-edit suggestions that predict where you'll edit next
- Copilot Chat for explaining, refactoring and debugging code
- Agent mode that edits multiple files, runs terminal commands and opens PRs
- Cloud coding agent that works on assigned GitHub issues autonomously
- Model picker with OpenAI, Anthropic, Google and xAI models
- Copilot CLI for the terminal and extensions/MCP integrations
π° Pricing
| Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| Free | $0/mo: 2,000 completions and 50 chat requests/month |
| Pro | ~$10/mo: unlimited completions, model picker, Copilot Chat, CLI, code review |
| Pro+ | ~$39/mo: bigger AI credit allowance, premium models |
| Max | ~$100/mo: highest individual credit allowance for all-day agent use |
| Business | ~$19/user/mo: org controls, audit logs, IP indemnity, policy management |
| Enterprise | ~$39/user/mo: custom models, zero data retention, deepest GitHub integration |
from ~$10/mo (approximate) A free tier is available if you want to try before you pay.
ππ Pros & Cons
β What we like
- Works in every major IDE β VS Code, JetBrains, Neovim, Xcode β no editor switch required
- Inline completions remain unlimited and unmetered on paid plans
- Cheapest serious AI coding tool per tier, beating Cursor on sticker price at every level
- Deep GitHub integration: PR summaries, automated code review, issue-to-PR agents
π€ What could be better
- Recent switch to usage-based AI credits surprised power users with higher bills than the old flat rate
- Agent mode feels bolted on next to purpose-built agents β weaker than Cursor on big refactors
β Frequently Asked Questions
Is GitHub Copilot still unlimited?
Not anymore. Plans switched to usage-based AI credits; inline completions stay unlimited on paid plans, while chat, agents and code review draw from your monthly credit allowance.
Does Copilot have a free plan?
Yes β Free includes 2,000 completions and 50 chat requests per month, enough for light personal use.
What's the difference between Pro and Pro+?
Pro is for everyday coding; Pro+ unlocks premium models and a much larger AI credit allowance for heavy agent workflows.
Is my code used to train models?
GitHub says it doesn't retain or train on your code by default; Enterprise adds a contractual zero-retention guarantee. Review the current docs if your employer cares about this.
π Alternatives to GitHub Copilot
Not quite right? These are worth a look instead: