Why Is GitHub Copilot So Slow? Here's What You Can Do

If you’ve ever found yourself waiting several seconds (or longer) for GitHub Copilot to suggest completions, you’re not alone. Many developers are asking, why is Copilot so slow, and more importantly — what can be done to speed it up?

Let’s explore the common causes behind Copilot’s sluggish behavior and share a few tips to improve its performance.

1. Heavy Project Size and Complex Context

Copilot works best when it can quickly analyze your codebase. If you're working in a large repository with multiple open files, it might take longer for Copilot to process everything. The bigger and more complex your context, the slower the suggestions.

Fix: Try closing unused tabs and limiting the number of files Copilot has to scan. Also, using .gitignore effectively can help reduce Copilot’s processing load.

2. Slow or Unstable Internet Connection

GitHub Copilot is powered by cloud-based models, so any delay in your internet connection will directly affect response time.

Fix: Ensure you're on a stable, high-speed network. A laggy Wi-Fi connection can cause significant delays in receiving suggestions.

3. Copilot Server Load or Downtime

Sometimes, the slowness isn’t on your side. GitHub’s servers may be experiencing high demand or temporary issues. During peak hours or outages, response times can spike.

Fix: Check GitHub’s status page to see if there are any known outages or service degradation.

4. VS Code or Plugin Issues

An outdated version of Visual Studio Code or the Copilot extension can lead to performance bottlenecks. Compatibility issues or corrupted settings can cause delays in prompt delivery.

Fix:

• Update VS Code and the GitHub Copilot extension.
• Disable conflicting extensions.
• Reset the extension settings if necessary.

5. Resource Limits on Your Machine

If your machine is low on memory or CPU resources (especially when running heavy IDEs like VS Code), Copilot’s response time can take a hit.

Fix:

• Close unnecessary background applications.
• Monitor system usage.
• Consider upgrading RAM or switching to a lighter code editor for smaller tasks.

Final Thoughts

Waiting on Copilot can be frustrating — especially when you're in the middle of a productive coding flow. But knowing the root cause helps you take action. Whether it’s network latency, local resource limits, or temporary server issues, there are practical steps you can follow to get Copilot working faster.

If you're still wondering why is Copilot so slow, the answer likely lies in one of the reasons above. Try the fixes suggested, and you’ll likely see better performance and smoother code completion in no time.