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Ask HN: ChatGPT vs. GitHub Copilot
3 points by DeathArrow on March 9, 2023 | hide | past | favorite | 2 comments
I used Copilot when it was free, and I've liked it. I also toyed a few minutes asking ChatGPT to generate some code, but I haven't gone beyond that, as ChatGPT doesn't have an IDE integration and it also can't know the context of the whole software package I'm working on, like Copilot.

My question is: can ChatGPT be a good alternative to copilot? Is there a product in development that plans to integrate with IDEs?

I just want to get rid of writing some boilerplate and boring stuff. I've always checked the code for correctness when I used Copilot and also used tests.



I currently use both. I see them as two different tools with two different strenths. Kinda like two different helpful colleagues with two different sweet spots.

Copilot = Code completion on steroids. Mind you, it's supposed to be good for starting new ideas but I haven't found the prompts that truly unlock that capability. It try to seed it with a comment but that doesn't often translate into what I want. Could be me? It tends to be more literal.

I realize different markets have different values for $10. But Copilot is an investment not an expense. If you're using it every day it pays for itself and then some.

ChatGPT = a rubber duck. It's great when you have an idea and like to see how that might look freshed out as lines of code.

I also find it useful for my blindspots. For example, I had to do some jQuery yesterday. It had been a couple of years since I last touched jQ. ChatGPT was better than searching for answers.

That said, ChatGPT tends to be more creative. Where I'm able to have a faux discussion on something. Copilot doesn't chat.

I use the free ChatGPT version. I'm considering the paid version. Maybe soon.


You should try asking that question to ChatGPT




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