VS

Cline vs Continue

Cline: An open-source coding agent for VS Code that plans, edits files and runs commands. Continue: Open-source AI code assistant for VS Code and JetBrains with any model you like. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.

Quick verdict

Cline

Best for: Developers who want a transparent, controllable coding agent.

Stands out for: Free and open source; You choose the model.

Continue

Best for: Teams that want a customisable, model-agnostic assistant.

Stands out for: Open source and flexible; Works with local models.

Side-by-side comparison

Comparison of Cline, Continue
Cline
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Continue
Visit continue.dev (opens in a new tab)
What it isAn open-source coding agent for VS Code that plans, edits files and runs commands.Open-source AI code assistant for VS Code and JetBrains with any model you like.
Pricing
Open source
Open source
Free to useYesYes
CategoryAI CodingAI Coding
Editor rank#16 in category#23 in category
Made byCline Bot Inc.Continue Dev
Best forDevelopers who want a transparent, controllable coding agent.Teams that want a customisable, model-agnostic assistant.
Key features
  • Plan and act modes
  • File edits with approval
  • Terminal and browser actions
  • Works with many model providers
  • Chat, autocomplete and edit
  • Any cloud or local model
  • Shareable custom assistants
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • You choose the model
  • Open source and flexible
  • Works with local models
Cons
  • API usage costs can add up on big tasks
  • Needs some configuration to get the best results
Use it to
  • Have the agent add a feature across several files
  • Debug a failing build step by step
  • Use a local or cheaper model for coding
  • Use a local model for private code completion
  • Build a team assistant with your coding rules
  • Ask questions about your codebase
Windows
Mac
Linux
VS Code

Cline vs Continue: questions

Is Cline better than Continue?

Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Cline slightly higher overall in AI Coding, but Continue can be the better fit: Teams that want a customisable, model-agnostic assistant.

Which is free, Cline or Continue?

Both can be used without paying: Cline is open source and Continue is open source. Paid plans add more usage or features.

Can I use Cline and Continue together?

Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example have the agent add a feature across several files with Cline, and use a local model for private code completion with Continue.

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