Head-to-Head Comparison

Cursor vs GitHub Copilot: Which AI Coding Assistant?

Cursor is a standalone AI-first IDE with chat and multi-file editing, while Copilot integrates into VS Code as an extension. Cursor offers deeper AI integration, Copilot has broader editor support.

Cursor
GitHub Copilot

Last updated: 2025-01

Side-by-Side Comparison

Cursor

Best For
AI-first development
Learning Curve
Easy
Pricing
Free tier + $20/mo
Interface
Standalone IDE
Chat Features
Advanced
Editor Support
Cursor only
Codebase Awareness
Excellent

GitHub Copilot

Best For
-
Learning Curve
-
Pricing
-
Interface
-
Chat Features
-
Editor Support
-
Codebase Awareness
-

Winner by Category

Best for Beginners

copilot

Works in familiar VS Code environment

Best for Customisation

copilot

Use your preferred editor

Best for Speed

Tie

Both offer fast completions

Best for Learning

Cursor

Better explanations and chat

Best Value

copilot

Lower monthly price

Our Recommendation

Choose Copilot if you love VS Code and want simple completions. Switch to Cursor for deeper AI collaboration and chat-driven development.

When to Choose Each Tool

1

Choose Copilot

Already comfortable with VS Code workflow

2

Choose Cursor

Want AI as a true pair programmer

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