While Deep Seek generally outperforms Copilot in terms of formula creation and explanation, there are specific scenarios where Copilot might be more advantageous:
1. Integration and Convenience: Copilot is seamlessly integrated into Excel, making it convenient for users who are already working within the Microsoft ecosystem. This integration allows for direct interaction with Excel files without needing to upload or describe them, as is the case with Deep Seek[1][4]. If you prefer a tool that is built directly into your workflow, Copilot is more suitable.
2. Structured Data Analysis: Copilot can reason over structured data beyond just tables, enabling tasks like adding filters or splitting text. It also supports complex formulas such as XLOOKUP and SUMIF, which are commonly used in data analysis[2]. If your work involves extensive data manipulation and analysis within Excel, Copilot's capabilities might be more beneficial.
3. Python Integration: Copilot in Excel can leverage Python libraries like pandas, Matplotlib, and scikit-learn, allowing for advanced data analysis and visualization directly within Excel. This feature is particularly useful for users familiar with Python who want to integrate its capabilities into their Excel workflows[2]. Deep Seek does not offer this level of integration with Python.
4. Collaboration and Sharing: Since Copilot operates within the Excel environment, it facilitates easier collaboration and sharing of work with others. This is especially useful in team settings where multiple users need to access and modify the same files[2].
5. Familiarity with Microsoft Policies: For users who are already comfortable with Microsoft's privacy and security policies, Copilot might be a more trusted choice compared to Deep Seek, whose policies might be less familiar[1].
In summary, while Deep Seek excels in formula creation and explanation, Copilot's strengths lie in its integration with Excel, advanced data analysis capabilities, and collaboration features, making it preferable in certain scenarios.
Citations:
[1] https://www.mrexcel.com/board/threads/excel-copilot-versus-deep-seek-head-to-head-episode-2671.1269554/
[2] https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/excelblog/unlock-the-power-of-copilot-in-excel-now-generally-available/4242810
[3] https://creospark.com/real-world-use-cases-of-copilot-in-microsoft-365/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omXgX9Azn78&vl=en
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/sysadmin/comments/1i3du6f/anyone_using_copilot_for_m365_what_gains_does_it/
[6] https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/frequently-asked-questions-about-copilot-in-excel-7a13758f-d61e-4a56-8440-f2c9a07802ec
[7] https://www.byteplus.com/en/topic/386312
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/microsoft_365_copilot/comments/1ifm7et/is_copilot_still_relevant/