Cline

Open-source AI coding agent for VS Code.

Filed under: Coding

About Cline

Cline is an open-source autonomous coding agent that lives in VS Code and can read files, run terminal commands, and edit code across your project. It works with your own API keys from providers like Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google, so you control model choice and cost. As one of the most popular open AI coding tools, it brings agentic workflows without leaving your editor. It pairs well with editor-based assistants such as GitHub Copilot for completions.

Key features

Autonomous multi-step coding agent
Bring-your-own API keys
Terminal command execution
Plan and Act modes
MCP server support
Free and open source

Cline screenshots

Cline: pros & cons

Pros

Completely free and open source
You control models and costs
Deep VS Code integration
Active community

Cons

You pay for model API usage
Can be slow on complex tasks
Requires setup and key management

Cline FAQs

Is Cline free?

Yes, Cline itself is free and open source; you pay only for the AI model API usage.

Which models work with Cline?

Cline supports Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, and other providers via your own API keys.

Is Cline safe to run?

Cline asks permission before running commands; review each action, especially in important projects.