AI-native VS Code fork: Agent plans multi-file edits, Tab finishes lines. / Why: the cheapest paid tier of the three ($8/mo) — if Grok models are enough.
Free· paid from$8/mo
Plus is Grok-onlyChecked 2026-10-19·cursor.com/pricing
vs ChatGPTWrite code & build agents
412 tools. Most people should start with one of the three below: they cover editor, IDE and terminal, and each has a free way in or a clear first paid tier.
OUR TAKE
Start with Cursor for an AI editor, GitHub Copilot to stay in your current IDE, or Claude Code if you work from the terminal.
Good fit
Developers choosing a first paid coding tool
Poor fit
No-code builders — see Replit Agent
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Start here · Editor picks
Pair programmer inside your IDE and GitHub, with chat and completions. / Why: stays inside the IDE you already use; Pro is $10/mo.
Free· paid from$10/mo
Flex credits are not unlimited AgentChecked 2026-10-19·github.com/features/copilot
vs Cursor
Anthropic's coding agent that works across your repo from the terminal or app. / Why: terminal-first across the whole repo; no editor switch.
Paid only$17/mo yearly
Claude Code is on paid seatsChecked 2026-10-22·anthropic.com/pricing
vs Codex CLIAll 409, in editor's order
Showing 1 of 409 · page 36
Windsurf is an AI IDE (Codeium → Cognition)
Free· paid from$20/mo
The name movedChecked 2026-10-19·windsurf.com/pricing
vs CursorStill deciding? Put them side by side
Facets: Run it yourself · Free only