Void - Claude code alternative

Void is a fork of VS Code that provides AI-powered coding assistance without routing data through proprietary servers. It connects directly to AI providers and supports both local and cloud-based models. Solo developers benefit from complete data ownership and the flexibility to use any AI model without vendor lock-in. Users can transfer their existing VS Code themes, keybinds, and settings in one click.

Strengths

Direct API connections bypass middleman servers, ensuring data privacy and control
Supports both local models (Ollama, DeepSeek, Llama) and cloud providers (Claude, OpenAI, Gemini)
Built on VS Code foundation with full compatibility for existing extensions and settings
Agent Mode provides terminal access and file manipulation capabilities
Checkpoint system allows visualization and rollback of LLM-generated changes
Free and open-source with no subscription fees or API credit limitations

Weaknesses

Development is currently paused while experimenting with novel features
Smaller community compared to established alternatives like Cursor
Limited official documentation and support resources
Beta status means potential stability issues and incomplete features

Best for

Privacy-conscious developers who want direct model control without data intermediaries

Pricing plans

Free — $0/month — Unlimited usage, open source

Tech details

Type: VS Code fork with integrated AI assistance
IDEs: VS Code-based standalone editor
Key features: Tab autocomplete, quick edit, agent mode, gather mode, checkpoint system, lint error detection
Privacy / hosting: Self-hosted or local installation, no data retention on proprietary servers
Models / context window: Supports Claude 3.7, GPT-4, Gemini 2.5, DeepSeek, Llama, Qwen, and OpenAI-compatible models - context windows vary by chosen model

When to choose this over Claude code

You need complete data privacy with direct API connections instead of proprietary intermediaries
You want flexibility to use any AI model including local open-source options
You prefer free, open-source tools without subscription costs

When Claude code may be a better fit

You need enterprise-grade support and documentation
You require production-ready stability without beta limitations
You want active ongoing development rather than paused projects

Conclusion

Void positions itself as a privacy-first alternative to closed-source AI editors by providing direct model access without data intermediaries. Its VS Code foundation ensures familiar workflows while adding powerful AI capabilities including agent modes and checkpoint visualization. However, the currently paused development status may concern users seeking active project maintenance. For developers prioritizing data control and model flexibility over enterprise features, Void offers a compelling Claude code alternative.

Sources

Official site: https://voideditor.com
Docs: Unknown
Pricing: https://voideditor.com

FAQ

Q: Is Void completely free to use? A: Yes, Void is free and open-source with no subscription fees. You only pay for the AI model APIs you choose to use.

Q: Can I use my existing VS Code setup with Void? A: Yes, Void lets you transfer all your VS Code themes, keybinds, and settings in one click.

Q: What AI models does Void support? A: Void supports both local models like Ollama, DeepSeek, and Llama, plus cloud providers including Claude, OpenAI, Gemini, and Grok.

Q: How does Void protect my data privacy? A: Void connects directly to AI providers without routing data through proprietary servers, giving you complete control over your code and conversations.

Q: Is Void ready for production use? A: Development is currently paused while experimenting with novel features, so stability may vary compared to more established alternatives.

Q: What makes Void different from Cursor? A: Unlike Cursor, Void doesn't send messages through a private backend - it connects directly to AI providers for better privacy and transparency.

Void