Cline
FreemiumOpen-source autonomous coding agent for VS Code — executes multi-step tasks with human-in-the-loop approval
What is Cline?
Cline (formerly Claude Dev) is an open-source autonomous coding agent that runs as a VS Code extension. It goes beyond simple code completion by acting as a full development agent: Cline can create and edit files across your project, run terminal commands, install dependencies, execute tests, and even interact with a browser to verify UI changes — all within your VS Code environment. What makes Cline unique is its human-in-the-loop approval system. Before every file edit, command execution, or API call, Cline shows you exactly what it plans to do and waits for your explicit approval. You maintain full control over your codebase while still benefiting from autonomous multi-step task execution. Cline supports virtually any LLM through its bring-your-own-API-key model. You can connect it to Claude (Anthropic), GPT-4o (OpenAI), Gemini (Google), DeepSeek, or locally running models through Ollama and LM Studio — switching between providers with a single configuration change. It also supports MCP (Model Context Protocol) tool integration, allowing you to extend Cline with custom tools for databases, APIs, documentation, and other external services. With over one million VS Code installs, Cline is one of the most popular open-source coding agents available. It is ideal for developers who want the power of an autonomous agent with transparent, reviewable actions and the flexibility to choose their preferred AI model without vendor lock-in.
⚡ Quick Verdict
Developers who want an autonomous coding agent in VS Code with full model flexibility and open-source transparency
Developers who want a managed, opinionated experience without API key setup
Free and open-source. Bring your own API key (Claude, GPT-4o, etc.). Cline Pro p
Yes
Open-source with any-model support and human-in-the-loop approval
Bring-your-own-API-key means managing costs and configuration yourself
Bottom line: Cline scores 4.4/5 — Developers who want an autonomous coding agent in VS Code with full model flexibility and open-source transparency.
Cline Pricing
Free and open-source. Bring your own API key (Claude, GPT-4o, etc.). Cline Pro plan available for managed experience.
Key Features
- Autonomous multi-step task execution in VS Code
- Human-in-the-loop — review and approve each action
- File creation, editing, and deletion
- Terminal command execution
- Browser automation for testing and research
- Supports any AI model via API key (Claude, GPT, Gemini, local)
- MCP server support for tool integrations
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free and open-source — bring your own API key
- Human-in-the-loop gives control without sacrificing autonomy
- Works with any AI model including local ones
- Active community with frequent updates
Cons
- API costs can add up quickly on complex tasks
- Requires configuring your own API key
- Quality depends heavily on which AI model you use
- Can be slower than purpose-built agents for large tasks
Best For
Developers who want an autonomous coding agent in VS Code with full model flexibility and open-source transparency
FAQ
What is Cline?
Cline (formerly Claude Dev) is an open-source AI coding assistant that runs as a VS Code extension. It uses Claude or other LLMs to autonomously write, edit, and debug code with your approval at each step. It reads your project files and executes terminal commands.
Is Cline free?
The extension is free and open-source. You pay for the AI API calls (Anthropic, OpenAI, etc.) based on usage. Typical coding sessions cost $0.10-$2.00 depending on complexity. There is no subscription fee for Cline itself.
Cline vs Cursor — which should I use?
Cline is a VS Code extension (stays in VS Code, no IDE switch). Cursor is a separate IDE (VS Code fork). Cline is cheaper (pay only API costs). Cursor is more polished with better UX. Choose Cline for budget and staying in VS Code, Cursor for the most refined experience.
What AI models does Cline support?
Cline supports Claude (Anthropic), GPT-4 (OpenAI), Gemini (Google), and other models via API. You bring your own API key. Claude Sonnet is the most popular choice for its coding quality and cost balance.
Is Cline safe? Does it modify files without permission?
Cline shows you every change before applying it and asks for approval. It will not modify files or run terminal commands without your explicit confirmation. You maintain full control over what happens to your codebase.
Score based on product quality, usability, value, features, reliability, integrations & market trust. How we score →
📋 Good to know
Install from VS Code Marketplace. Add your API key (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, or local model endpoint). Start a chat and describe your task.
Fully open-source — code stays local. Only the context you send via API leaves your machine. Use local models for zero-cloud operation.
Cline Free handles most workflows. Consider Cline Pro when you want managed billing, usage analytics, and team features without self-managing API keys.
Low to moderate. VS Code users adapt quickly. The main skill is writing clear task descriptions and knowing when to approve vs reject proposed actions.