GitHub Copilot vs Codex CLI: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GitHub Copilot and Codex CLI comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GitHub Copilot
AI pair programmer that suggests code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • AI pair programmer by GitHub
- • Code suggestions in your editor
Codex CLI
OpenAI official terminal coding agent
Best for you if:
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • OpenAI Codex in the terminal
- • Natural language to code commands
| At a Glance |  GitHub Copilot |  Codex CLI |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 89/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | GitHub Copilot | Codex CLI |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 89 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsAI Coding | Terminal ToolsAI Coding |
How GitHub Copilot and Codex CLI Compare
GitHub Copilot
AI pair programmer that suggests code
Paid · 89/100 score
Codex CLI
OpenAI official terminal coding agent
Paid
GitHub Copilot is a ide & code editors tool. Codex CLI is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: GitHub Copilot
Want the highest-rated option?
GitHub Copilot scores 89/100. Codex CLI is unrated.
Go with: GitHub Copilot
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GitHub Copilot
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
GitHub Copilot is a ide & code editors tool. Codex CLI is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
GitHub Copilot
- Higher score: 89/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Codex CLI
- Better fit for terminal tools
The Bottom Line
GitHub Copilot (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GitHub Copilot or Codex CLI better?
GitHub Copilot scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are GitHub Copilot and Codex CLI used for?
GitHub Copilot: AI pair programmer that suggests code. Codex CLI: OpenAI official terminal coding agent.
What does GitHub Copilot cost vs Codex CLI?
GitHub Copilot is a paid tool. Codex CLI is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.