GitHub Copilot vs Windsurf: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GitHub Copilot and Windsurf 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 8.5/10)
- • AI pair programmer by GitHub
- • Code suggestions in your editor
Windsurf
The AI-native code editor
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • An AI-native IDE with an agentic AI (Cascade) for deep codebase understanding and real-time assistance.
- • Offers generative code, live previews, and intelligent refactoring to streamline development workflows.
| At a Glance |  GitHub Copilot |  Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 89/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | GitHub Copilot | Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 89 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsAI Coding | IDE & Code EditorsCode Review |
How GitHub Copilot and Windsurf Compare
GitHub Copilot
AI pair programmer that suggests code
Paid · 89/100 score
Windsurf
The AI-native code editor
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Windsurf has a free tier. GitHub Copilot is paid only.
Go with: Windsurf
Want the highest-rated option?
GitHub Copilot: 89/100. Windsurf: 85/100.
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?
GitHub Copilot is paid. Windsurf is freemium. Windsurf lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
GitHub Copilot scores higher: 89/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
GitHub Copilot
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 85
- Our pick for this comparison
Windsurf
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
GitHub Copilot (89/100) is our pick. Windsurf has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GitHub Copilot or Windsurf better?
GitHub Copilot scores 89/100 in our evaluation. GitHub Copilot is paid and Windsurf is freemium.
What are GitHub Copilot and Windsurf used for?
GitHub Copilot: AI pair programmer that suggests code. Windsurf: The AI-native code editor.
What does GitHub Copilot cost vs Windsurf?
GitHub Copilot is a paid tool. Windsurf is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.