Do I Need a Copilot+ PC to Run Copilot? 

Quick Summary 

Microsoft Copilot is now built into everyday tools like Word, Outlook, Teams and Windows itself. With the arrival of Copilot+ PCs, many businesses are asking whether they need new hardware to take advantage of Copilot. 

The short answer is no – most organisations can use Copilot on their existing devices. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between Copilot and Copilot+ PCs, what runs where, and how to decide if (and when) upgrading makes sense for your business. 

Why Copilot Hardware is Suddenly a Hot Topic 

Microsoft Copilot has moved quickly from an “interesting extra” to a tool employees use day to day. As Microsoft continues to embed AI more deeply into Windows and Microsoft 365, questions about hardware naturally follow. 

The confusion often comes down to naming. Microsoft Copilot and Copilot+ PCs sound closely related but they’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference is key to making the right device decisions and avoiding unnecessary upgrades. 

If you’re responsible for devices, budgets, or IT strategy, this guide helps separate practical reality from AI hype. 

What is Microsoft Copilot? 

At its core, Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant designed to help people work more efficiently across everyday tools. 

You’ll find Copilot in applications like: 

• Word – drafting, rewriting, and summarising documents 

• Excel – explaining formulas and analysing data 

• Outlook – summarising long email threads and drafting replies 

• Teams – meeting notes, highlights, and action points 

• Windows – finding settings, files, and information more quickly 

For most users today, Copilot runs primarily via Microsoft’s cloud, with AI processing handled in Azure rather than on the local device. This is why Copilot works on a wide range of existing PCs and does not require specialist hardware. 

Example: 
A finance team using Copilot in Excel to summarise spend trends or explain formulas will see no difference between a standard business laptop and a Copilot+ PC because the AI workload is processed in the cloud. 

What is a Copilot+ PC? 

A Copilot+ PC is a new category of Windows 11 device designed specifically for on‑device AI processing. 

These machines include a specialised chip called a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which allows certain AI tasks to run locally on the device instead of in the cloud. An NPU is far more power‑efficient than a CPU or GPU for AI inference. Microsoft introduced the 40 TOPS thresholds to ensure local AI features run responsively without draining battery or performance.  

What Extra Features do Copilot+ PCs Unlock? 

Copilot+ PCs are not required for Copilot itself, but they do unlock additional Windows features that run locally. 

These include: 

• On‑device AI processing, reducing latency for supported tasks 

• AI features that work offline or with limited connectivity 

• Advanced Windows capabilities such as live captions, image generation and enhanced camera effects 

• Better performance per watt for AI‑heavy workloads 

Real‑World Example 

A marketing or design user generating images locally or applying live captions during video calls benefits from faster responses and lower latency on a Copilot+ PC because those tasks run directly on the device instead of in the cloud. 

Do You Need a Copilot+ PC to Run Copilot? 

Short answer: no 

You do not need a Copilot+ PC to use Microsoft Copilot. 

Copilot works on: 

• Most modern Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs 

• Standard business laptops and desktops 

• Devices without an NPU 

If your device meets Microsoft’s normal requirements and has an internet connection, Copilot will work just fine for everyday tasks. 

When a Copilot+ PC is Required 

A Copilot+ PC is only necessary if you want: 

• AI features that run directly on the device 

• Faster local processing for supported AI tasks 

• Access to certain exclusive Windows AI features 

For many organisations, these features are useful but not essential. 

Copilot vs Copilot+ PCs: A Simple Comparison 

Standard Business PC 

✅ Runs Microsoft Copilot 

✅ Works with Microsoft 365 Copilot 

✅ Ideal for email, documents, meetings, and admin 

❌ No advanced on‑device AI features 

Copilot+ PC 

✅ Everything above 

✅ Faster AI processing 

✅ Exclusive Windows AI capabilities 

✅ More future‑proof for AI‑heavy roles 

This difference is why many businesses choose to phase adoption, rather than refresh everything at once. 

Should Your Business Upgrade Now? 

There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. The right choice depends on how your people work. 

A Copilot+ PC may be worth considering if: 

• You’re already planning a device refresh 

• Your users work with large datasets, creative tools, or advanced AI features 

• You want to future‑proof high‑impact roles 

You’re likely fine with existing PCs if: 

• Most users rely on Word, Outlook, Teams and Excel 

• You want to roll out Copilot quickly without replacing hardware 

• Your current devices still have life left in them 

This is where lifecycle planning becomes more important than chasing the latest label. 

How HardSoft Helps Businesses Adopt Copilot Sensibly 

This type of decision is exactly where HardSoft adds value. 

With over 40 years of experience, HardSoft helps organisations adopt new technology without unnecessary disruption or cost. 

Why businesses work with HardSoft: 

• End‑to‑end lifecycle management — from procurement to refresh and redeployment, powered by our Boomerang device lifecycle management service.

• A true one‑stop shop for business device leasing and flexible finance solutions.

• Dedicated UK‑based support teams, with fast response times and optional Gold and Platinum support tiers (see our support plans).

• A strong reputation backed by 4.9★ Trustpilot reviews and long‑term customer relationships 
  (read verified customer reviews).

Rather than pushing a full refresh, HardSoft helps you align Copilot adoption with your existing device estate and future roadmap. 

Planning for Copilot without Over‑Committing 

One of the biggest advantages of leasing is avoiding long‑term lock‑in. 

With HardSoft, many customers choose to: 

• Roll out Copilot on existing devices first 

• Upgrade specific users to Copilot+ PCs where it adds real value 

• Refresh the wider estate gradually using flexible device leasing for business  

For larger or fast‑growing teams, some organisations also explore a Device‑as‑a‑Service approach through Devices for Teams by HardSoft — combining devices, finance, lifecycle management and support into a single monthly cost.  

Key Takeaways 

• You do not need a Copilot+ PC to run Microsoft Copilot 

• Copilot works on most modern Windows devices via the cloud 

• Copilot+ PCs unlock additional, on‑device AI features 

• Most businesses can adopt Copilot without a full device refresh 

• Copilot+ PCs are best considered during planned upgrade cycles 

• HardSoft helps align AI adoption with sensible, flexible device strategy 

FAQs 

Can Copilot run on Windows 10? 

Yes. Many Copilot features work on Windows 10, although Microsoft is prioritising Windows 11 for future AI enhancements. 

Is Copilot the same as Copilot Pro? 

No. Copilot Pro is a subscription upgrade. Copilot+ PCs are a hardware category. They’re separate. 

Will Copilot eventually require Copilot+ PCs? 

Some advanced features will be exclusive, but core Copilot functionality is expected to remain cloud‑based for the foreseeable future. 

Are Copilot+ PCs worth the investment? 

They can be – particularly for AI‑heavy roles. For most office‑based users, standard business PCs remain perfectly suitable. 

Next Steps: Get the Right Copilot Setup for Your Business 

If you’re unsure whether to upgrade devices now or later, HardSoft can help you plan with confidence. 

Explore your options with HardSoft and adopt Copilot in a way that makes sense for your business.