GitHub Copilot — Grok Code & Editors

GitHub Copilot and third-party models

GitHub Copilot is the most widely used code assistant, integrated into VS Code, JetBrains, and Neovim. Originally tied to OpenAI models, Copilot has opened its ecosystem to let you use third-party models, including those from xAI.

Using grok-build-0.1 with Copilot

GitHub Copilot now includes a “multi-model” mode that lets you select your preferred model for chat interactions and agents. grok-build-0.1 is among the models accessible directly within the Copilot interface, without needing to configure a base URL.

Configuration

Open GitHub Copilot Chat in VS Code
In the model selector (at the top of the chat panel), look for xAI/Grok models
Select grok-build-0.1

Exact steps may vary depending on your Copilot version and subscription plan. Consult the GitHub documentation for the latest details.

Usage modes

Chat: ask questions about your code, request explanations, or ask for modifications
Inline suggestions: code suggestions while typing (Copilot’s signature feature)
Agent mode: Copilot executes complex tasks in agentic mode, with file read/write access

Advantages of Copilot integration

Mature ecosystem

Copilot offers the deepest integration with VS Code. Inline suggestions, hover code explanations, and terminal integration are native and seamless.

Multi-editor

Unlike Cline (VS Code only) and Cursor (standalone editor), Copilot works in VS Code, Visual Studio, JetBrains IDEs (IntelliJ, PyCharm, WebStorm…), and Neovim.

GitHub context

If your project is hosted on GitHub, Copilot has access to repository context, issues, and pull requests. This access enhances the model’s suggestions.

Limitations

Copilot’s convenience comes with trade-offs in three areas. First, cost: you need a GitHub subscription (Individual, Business, or Enterprise), which adds to the xAI model API cost if applicable—whereas a direct integration like Cline charges only for consumption. Second, control: model parameters (temperature, max tokens) are not exposed like in a direct API integration, which limits fine-grained control for specific uses. Third, availability: access to third-party models depends on your Copilot plan and region. If your organization’s plan doesn’t include xAI models, you won’t have access through this interface. Copilot is the right choice when it’s already deployed in your organization; otherwise, compare it with direct integrations before making a commitment.

Copilot vs direct integration

To use grok-build-0.1, you have two options:

Via Copilot: select the model in the Copilot interface. Simpler, but with Copilot ecosystem constraints.
Via Cline/Cursor: configure the xAI API directly. More control, more flexibility.

The choice depends on your workflow. If you already use Copilot and its ecosystem, staying within Copilot is the most natural path. If you want total control over parameters and cost, direct integration is better.

Key takeaways

GitHub Copilot supports third-party models including grok-build-0.1
You select the model in the Copilot chat model selector
Copilot works in VS Code, JetBrains, and Neovim
The integration is simpler but offers less control
A GitHub Copilot subscription is required