when you install
Microsoft Edge for Mac offers two distinct browsing modes when you launch the browser: “Start with Copilot” and “Continue without Copilot.” Below is a detailed comparison of these two options to help you decide which one suits your needs better.
1. Start with Copilot
What it is: This mode integrates Microsoft Copilot (an AI-powered assistant) directly into your browsing experience from the moment you open Edge. Copilot appears as a sidebar panel, ready to assist with searches, content generation, summarization, and more.
Key Features & Benefits:
✅ AI-Powered Assistance
Contextual Help: Copilot can answer questions, summarize web pages, generate emails, or even write code snippets based on the content you’re viewing.
Conversational Search: Ask natural-language questions (e.g., “Summarize this article in 3 bullet points”) without leaving the page.
Creative Tools: Draft social media posts, blog ideas, or brainstorm content using AI.
✅ Seamless Workflow Integration
Sidebar Access: Copilot stays docked in the sidebar, so you don’t need to switch tabs or windows to use it.
Real-Time Suggestions: Get AI-generated insights while browsing (e.g., comparing products, explaining complex topics).
Multitasking: Use Copilot alongside your browsing without disrupting your flow.
✅ Personalization
Learns from your interactions to provide more relevant suggestions over time.
Can integrate with Microsoft 365 (if you use it) for deeper productivity features (e.g., drafting Outlook emails).
✅ Privacy Controls
You can toggle Copilot on/off or adjust its permissions (e.g., whether it can access page content).
Potential Drawbacks:
⚠ Resource Usage
Running Copilot may slightly increase CPU/memory usage, especially if you have many tabs open.
⚠ Distraction Risk
The sidebar might feel intrusive if you prefer a minimalist browsing experience.
⚠ Limited Offline Functionality
Copilot requires an internet connection to function (though Edge itself works offline).
2. Continue Without Copilot
What it is: This mode launches Edge in its traditional browsing mode, without the Copilot sidebar. You get the core Edge experience—fast, secure, and feature-rich—but without AI assistance.
Key Features & Benefits:
✅ Clean, Minimalist Interface
- No sidebar = more screen real estate for browsing.
- Ideal for users who prefer a distraction-free experience.
✅ Lower Resource Usage
- No AI processes running in the background, which may improve performance on older Macs or with many tabs open.
✅ Familiar Edge Features
- Speed & Efficiency: Edge is built on Chromium, so it’s fast and compatible with Chrome extensions.
- Privacy Tools: Built-in tracking prevention, InPrivate mode, and Microsoft Defender SmartScreen.
- Productivity: Vertical tabs, collections, immersive reader, and PDF tools.
- Cross-Device Sync: Seamless integration with Microsoft accounts (bookmarks, passwords, history).
✅ No AI Overhead
- No risk of AI-generated content cluttering your workflow if you don’t need it.
Potential Drawbacks:
⚠ Missed AI Opportunities
- No instant access to Copilot’s features (e.g., summarization, content generation).
- You’d need to manually open Copilot (via the sidebar button) if you want it later.
⚠ Less Contextual Help
- No real-time AI suggestions while browsing (e.g., comparing products, explaining terms).
Comparison Table
| Feature | Start with Copilot | Continue Without Copilot |
|---|---|---|
| AI Assistance | ✅ Built-in (sidebar always open) | ❌ Not active by default (can be enabled) |
| Screen Real Estate | ❌ Sidebar takes space | ✅ Full-width browsing |
| Resource Usage | ❌ Slightly higher (AI processes) | ✅ Lower (no AI overhead) |
| Productivity Boost | ✅ Instant AI tools (summaries, drafting) | ❌ Manual effort required |
| Privacy | ✅ Adjustable (toggle Copilot access) | ✅ No AI tracking |
| Learning Curve | ❌ May feel overwhelming for some | ✅ Simple, traditional browser |
| Offline Use | ❌ Copilot requires internet | ✅ Edge works offline |
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick “Start with Copilot” if you:
- Want AI-powered help for research, writing, or learning.
- Enjoy multitasking (e.g., taking notes while browsing).
- Use Microsoft 365 and want deeper integration (e.g., drafting emails).
- Don’t mind the sidebar taking up space.
Pick “Continue Without Copilot” if you:
- Prefer a clean, minimalist browser.
- Have a lower-end Mac and want to save resources.
- Rarely need AI tools and prefer manual control.
- Are concerned about privacy (though Copilot can be disabled).
Can You Switch Later?
Yes! You can toggle Copilot on/off at any time:
- Click the Copilot icon in the top-right toolbar.
- Select “Hide sidebar” to disable it temporarily.
- Or go to Edge Settings > Sidebar > Copilot to adjust preferences.
Final Verdict
- For productivity and AI lovers: “Start with Copilot” is the way to go. It turns Edge into a powerful assistant for work, study, or creative tasks.
- For speed and simplicity: “Continue without Copilot” is better if you want a no-frills, efficient browser.
Try both and see which fits your workflow! Edge also lets you customize the sidebar to show only the tools you need (e.g., Copilot + Collections).