GitHub Copilot Workspace
GitHub Copilot Workspace is a robust plugin developed by GitHub that integrates seamlessly into various operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Designed for developers, it leverages state-of-the-art language models such as GPT-5 and Claude Sonnet to facilitate code generation and editing across multiple files. One of its key features is predictive editing, which helps developers streamline their workflow by suggesting code snippets and automating repetitive tasks. Although it lacks terminal access, it offers a standard privacy policy and enterprise-level data protection certified by SOC2 Type II. With pricing ranging from $0 to $20 per month, it provides a cost-effective solution for individual developers and small teams. Configuration is straightforward with the .copilotrc file, ensuring a smooth user experience.
Pros
- ✓ Seamless integration with multiple OS platforms.
- ✓ Supports powerful LLMs like GPT-5.
- ✓ Predictive edits for enhanced productivity.
- ✓ SOC2 Type II certified for data protection.
- ✓ Cost-effective pricing model.
Cons
- ✕ No local inference capability.
- ✕ Lacks terminal access for deeper system interactions.
- ✕ No free tier available.
OpenHands
OpenHands is a cloud-based tool developed by OpenHands, offering comprehensive support across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. It is equipped to handle various LLMs including GPT-5, Claude 4.5, and Qwen3-Coder-30B, making it a versatile choice for developers seeking advanced coding assistance. OpenHands provides full terminal access, allowing for extensive system manipulations and code executions directly from the interface. Its privacy policy aligns with industry standards, and the tool is SOC2 Type II certified, ensuring enterprise-level security. While local inference is supported, enabling on-device processing, the pricing model requires contacting sales for detailed information, which may not be as straightforward for individual users. Configuration requires setting up a .openhandsrc file, which might demand additional initial effort.
Pros
- ✓ Supports a wide range of LLMs for diverse applications.
- ✓ Offers full terminal access for advanced usage.
- ✓ Local inference capability enhances performance.
- ✓ Enterprise-level security with SOC2 Type II certification.
Cons
- ✕ Pricing details require contacting sales.
- ✕ Initial setup might be complex for some users.
- ✕ No free tier available.
Comparison Table
| Feature | GitHub Copilot Workspace | OpenHands |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture Type | plugin | cloud |
| Supported Os | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Developer | GitHub | OpenHands |
| Supported Llms | GPT-5, Claude Sonnet | GPT-5, Claude 4.5, Qwen3-Coder-30B, Gemini 3.0 |
| Context Window | 200k tokens | 200k tokens |
| Agentic Editing | Yes, multi-file | Yes, multi-file |
| Terminal Access | No | Full |
| Privacy Mode | Standard Privacy Policy | Standard Privacy Policy |
| Certifications | SOC2 Type II (Enterprise) | SOC2 Type II (Enterprise) |
| About Price | $0 – $20/mo | Contact Sales |
| Config File | .copilotrc | .openhandsrc |
| Migration | Seamless | Requires setup |
Conclusion
Both GitHub Copilot Workspace and OpenHands offer robust features catering to developers, with each tool excelling in different areas. GitHub Copilot Workspace is ideal for those seeking a cost-effective, seamless integration with predictive editing capabilities, while OpenHands provides extensive terminal access and local inference for more advanced coding needs. Users should consider their specific requirements and budget when choosing between these two powerful tools.