Comparison

GitHub Copilot vs Roo Code

How the two compare on the things that decide whether your setup carries over: open standards, license, models and where they run.

GitHub CopilotRoo Code
MakerGitHub / MicrosoftRoo Code
LicenseProprietaryApache-2.0
ModelsSee vendor docsSee vendor docs
Runs inIDE, GitHub, CLIIDE
MCPMCP: supportedMCP: supported
Agent SkillsAgent Skills: supportedAgent Skills: supported
AGENTS.mdAGENTS.md: supportedAGENTS.md: supported
ACPACP: supported?ACP: not yet verified

Key differences

  • Roo Code is open source (Apache-2.0); GitHub Copilot is proprietary. If you need to self-host, audit or fork the harness, that settles it.
  • GitHub Copilot also runs in GitHub, CLI.
  • GitHub Copilot supports ACP; we have not verified it for Roo Code.
  • Both support MCP, Agent Skills, AGENTS.md, so MCP servers, skills and repo instructions you set up carry over if you switch.

In their own words

GitHub Copilot

Copilot's coding agent and VS Code agent mode. Agent Skills, AGENTS.md and MCP are supported; ACP support is in public preview.

WebsiteMCP docs

Roo Code

Open-source multi-mode coding agent for VS Code with custom modes, MCP, Skills and AGENTS.md.

Website

FAQ

Is GitHub Copilot or Roo Code open source?
GitHub Copilot is proprietary. Roo Code is open source under Apache-2.0.
Do GitHub Copilot and Roo Code support MCP servers?
GitHub Copilot: yes. Roo Code: yes.
Can I reuse Agent Skills between GitHub Copilot and Roo Code?
Yes. Both read the open Agent Skills (SKILL.md) format, so the same skill folder works in both.

Set up MCP servers in either one

MCP install guide for VS CodeAll official MCP servers

More comparisons

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Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.