Cursor - Claude code alternative

Cursor is an AI-powered code editor based on VS Code. It integrates advanced language models directly into the coding environment. Solo developers benefit from intelligent code completion, chat-based assistance, and context-aware suggestions. This Claude code alternative offers seamless AI integration within a familiar editor interface.

Strengths

Multi-model support: Access to GPT-4, GPT-4o, and Claude 3.5 Sonnet models for diverse AI capabilities
Extended context awareness: Maintains context windows across chat sessions with attached files and responses
Model Context Protocol integration: Connects to external services like Google Drive and Notion for enhanced workflow
VS Code compatibility: Built on familiar VS Code foundation with established extensions and workflows
Flexible pricing tiers: Multiple subscription options from free to enterprise-level usage
Real-time collaboration: Chat-based AI assistance integrated directly in the editor interface

Weaknesses

Complex pricing structure: Usage-based costs can include unexpected 20% overages beyond predicted amounts
Context window limitations: Context windows have maximum spans that may restrict large codebase analysis
Learning curve: Advanced features like MCP require additional setup and configuration
Internet dependency: Requires active connection for AI model access and cloud-based features

Best for

Professional developers and teams needing AI-assisted coding with VS Code familiarity and multi-model access.

Pricing plans

Free — $0/month — 50 fast requests, 200 slow requests monthly
Pro — $20/month — 500 fast requests, unlimited slow requests, unlimited completions
Business — $40/user/month — Enhanced team features and priority support
Teams — $40/month — Self-service team plan
Ultra — $200/month — Power user tier for heavy usage
Enterprise — Custom pricing — SCIM, annual invoicing, priority support

Tech details

Type: AI-powered code editor (VS Code based)
IDEs: VS Code foundation with integrated AI capabilities
Key features: Multi-model AI chat, code completion, context-aware suggestions, MCP integration
Privacy / hosting: Cloud-based AI models, unknown data retention policies
Models / context window: GPT-4, GPT-4o, Claude 3.5 Sonnet, variable context windows per model

When to choose this over Claude code

You prefer working within a full-featured IDE environment with VS Code extensions
Your workflow requires multiple AI models for different coding tasks
You need visual interface and chat-based AI assistance rather than command-line tools

When Claude code may be a better fit

You prefer command-line development workflows and terminal-based interactions
You want direct Claude model access without additional UI complexity
Your projects require simpler, more focused AI assistance without multi-model switching

Conclusion

Cursor provides a comprehensive AI coding environment built on VS Code foundations. It offers multiple language models and advanced context management features. The platform suits developers who want AI assistance within a familiar editor interface. However, pricing complexity and internet dependency may limit some use cases.

Sources

FAQ

What models does Cursor support? Cursor provides access to GPT-4, GPT-4o, and Claude 3.5 Sonnet models for different AI capabilities and use cases.

How does Cursor's context window work? Each chat session maintains its own context window, with size increasing based on prompts, attached files, and responses included in the session.

What is Model Context Protocol in Cursor? MCP serves as a bridge for bringing external context into Cursor, enabling connections to services like Google Drive and Notion for enhanced workflows.

How much does Cursor Pro cost? The Pro plan costs $20/month and includes 500 fast requests, unlimited slow requests, and unlimited completions.

Can Cursor work offline? Cursor requires internet connection for AI model access and cloud-based features, making offline development limited to basic VS Code functionality.

Is there a free tier available? Yes, Cursor offers a free tier with 50 fast requests and 200 slow requests per month for basic AI assistance.

Cursor