Windows users now have multiple AI-powered options for discovering new applications, with ChatGPT, Google's Gemini (formerly Bard), and Microsoft Copilot each offering unique approaches to app recommendations. We put these three leading chatbots to the test across several common Windows user scenarios to determine which performs best for app discovery.

Methodology

We evaluated the chatbots across five key categories:
- Gaming recommendations
- Productivity/note-taking apps
- Weather applications
- Video editing software
- System utilities

Each AI was given identical prompts requesting Windows application suggestions, with responses judged on:
- Relevance of recommendations
- Specificity (mentioning exact apps vs. generic categories)
- Windows compatibility awareness
- Explanation quality
- Follow-up capability

Gaming App Recommendations

Prompt: "What are the best Windows apps for discovering new PC games?"

ChatGPT recommended:
- Steam (detailed explanation of discovery features)
- Epic Games Store (mentioned free game offerings)
- GOG Galaxy (highlighted DRM-free advantage)

Gemini suggested:
- Steam (basic description)
- Xbox Game Pass app
- itch.io (for indie games)

Copilot provided:
- Steam (with installation tips)
- Microsoft Store (emphasized Xbox integration)
- GeForce Experience (for NVIDIA users)

Winner: ChatGPT for most comprehensive explanations and niche options.

Note-Taking App Showdown

Prompt: "Recommend Windows note-taking apps with sync across devices"

ChatGPT offered:
- OneNote (detailed feature breakdown)
- Obsidian (explained markdown support)
- Standard Notes (highlighted encryption)

Gemini suggested:
- Google Keep (basic)
- Evernote
- Notion

Copilot recommended:
- OneNote (deep Microsoft integration details)
- Notion
- Joplin (open-source alternative)

Winner: Copilot for Windows-specific integration insights.

Weather App Recommendations

Prompt: "What are the most accurate weather apps for Windows?"

ChatGPT recommended:
- Weather.com app
- AccuWeather
- Windows Weather app (with live tile mention)

Gemini suggested:
- Dark Sky (before shutdown notice)
- Windy
- Carrot Weather

Copilot provided:
- Microsoft Weather (deep integration details)
- Weather Underground
- MyRadar

Winner: ChatGPT for most current, available options.

Video Editing Software

Prompt: "Recommend free video editing software for Windows beginners"

ChatGPT suggested:
- DaVinci Resolve (detailed feature explanation)
- Shotcut
- OpenShot

Gemini recommended:
- iMovie (incorrectly listed as Windows compatible)
- HitFilm Express
- VSDC

Copilot offered:
- Clipchamp (Microsoft-focused)
- DaVinci Resolve
- Filmora

Winner: ChatGPT for accuracy and beginner-focused advice.

System Utilities

Prompt: "What essential system utilities should every Windows user have?"

ChatGPT recommended:
- CCleaner (with caution notes)
- Malwarebytes
- Everything (file search tool)

Gemini suggested:
- WinDirStat
- 7-Zip
- HWMonitor

Copilot provided:
- Windows PowerToys (detailed features)
- Process Explorer
- TreeSize Free

Winner: Copilot for highlighting Microsoft's own utilities.

Key Findings

  1. Specialization Differences:
    - ChatGPT excels at detailed explanations
    - Copilot shines on Microsoft ecosystem integration
    - Gemini provides faster but sometimes less accurate responses

  2. Update Frequency:
    - Copilot and ChatGPT had more current app knowledge
    - Gemini occasionally recommended discontinued services

  3. Windows Awareness:
    - Copilot naturally understands Windows-specific needs best
    - ChatGPT adapts well when prompted specifically about Windows
    - Gemini sometimes suggests cross-platform apps without Windows-specific context

Pro Tips for Better Results

  • Be specific about Windows version (11 vs 10)
  • Mention if you prefer free vs paid apps
  • Ask for alternatives if first suggestions don't fit
  • Request comparison between top recommendations

The Future of AI App Discovery

Microsoft is increasingly integrating Copilot into Windows search functionality, suggesting it may become the default discovery method. However, ChatGPT's broader knowledge base remains valuable for niche applications, while Gemini offers quick answers for common requests.

All three platforms continue to improve, with ChatGPT recently adding better Windows version awareness and Gemini expanding its app knowledge base. For Windows users, maintaining access to multiple chatbots may provide the most comprehensive app discovery experience.