VS

Bolt.new vs Windsurf

Bolt.new: Prompt, run and deploy full-stack apps in the browser. Windsurf: An AI code editor with an agent that keeps context as you work. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.

Quick verdict

Bolt.new

Best for: Developers and makers prototyping web apps quickly.

Stands out for: Runs a real dev environment in the browser; Fast from idea to live preview.

Windsurf

Best for: Developers who want an alternative AI editor.

Stands out for: Agent keeps track of your recent actions; Familiar editor layout.

Side-by-side comparison

Comparison of Bolt.new, Windsurf
Bolt.new
Visit bolt.new (opens in a new tab)
Windsurf
Visit windsurf.com (opens in a new tab)
What it isPrompt, run and deploy full-stack apps in the browser.An AI code editor with an agent that keeps context as you work.
Pricing
Free + Paid
Free + Paid
Free to useYesYes
CategoryAI CodingAI Coding
Editor rank#9 in category#13 in category
Made byStackBlitzCognition
Best forDevelopers and makers prototyping web apps quickly.Developers who want an alternative AI editor.
Key features
  • Prompt to running app
  • In-browser development environment
  • One-click deploy
  • Agentic multi-file edits
  • Fast autocomplete
  • Plugins for other editors
Pros
  • Runs a real dev environment in the browser
  • Fast from idea to live preview
  • You can edit the generated code directly
  • Agent keeps track of your recent actions
  • Familiar editor layout
  • Free plan available
Cons
  • Token limits on the free plan
  • Large projects can confuse the AI
  • Agent edits still need careful review
  • Heavy use needs a paid plan
Use it to
  • Generate a full-stack app from a prompt
  • Edit and preview code in the browser
  • Deploy a prototype to share with others
  • Let the agent make changes across many files
  • Get autocomplete while coding
  • Ask questions about your codebase in chat
Web app
Windows
Mac
Linux

Bolt.new vs Windsurf: questions

Is Bolt.new better than Windsurf?

Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Bolt.new slightly higher overall in AI Coding, but Windsurf can be the better fit: Developers who want an alternative AI editor.

Which is free, Bolt.new or Windsurf?

Both can be used without paying: Bolt.new is free + paid and Windsurf is free + paid. Paid plans add more usage or features.

Can I use Bolt.new and Windsurf together?

Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example generate a full-stack app from a prompt with Bolt.new, and let the agent make changes across many files with Windsurf.

More comparisons