Claude Code
Anthropic's agentic coding tool that reads your codebase, edits files and runs commands from the terminal.
What is Claude Code?
Claude Code is an agentic coding tool from Anthropic that works in your terminal. You describe what you want in plain language, and Claude reads your codebase, edits files, runs commands and tests, and handles git tasks. It is also available in IDEs, on the web and in the Claude desktop app.
Claude Code started as a command-line tool and remains closely associated with the terminal. You install it, open it in a project folder and chat with Claude about the code. Unlike autocomplete tools, it can take multistep actions: search the repo, plan a change, edit several files and run the test suite.
Claude Code asks for permission before editing files or running commands by default, and you can configure which actions are allowed. A CLAUDE.md file in your repo gives Claude project-specific instructions, such as build commands and coding conventions.
It supports the Model Context Protocol (MCP), so you can connect tools like issue trackers, databases and documentation. Developers can also extend it with hooks, custom slash commands, skills and subagents, and run it non-interactively in scripts and CI pipelines.
Claude Code is included with paid Claude subscriptions, such as Pro and Max, and is also available on team and enterprise plans or with pay-as-you-go API billing.
Key features of Claude Code
- Codebase understanding: Searches and reads your project to answer questions and plan changes.
- Multi-file editing: Makes coordinated changes across many files in one task.
- Command execution: Runs builds, tests, linters and git commands with your permission.
- MCP integrations: Connect external tools and data sources through the Model Context Protocol.
- Customization: CLAUDE.md memory, hooks, slash commands, skills and subagents.
- Multiple surfaces: Use it in the terminal, IDE extensions, the web and the desktop app.
What you can use Claude Code for
- Implementing features from a plain-language description
- Debugging failing tests and fixing errors
- Refactoring and migrating code across many files
- Onboarding to an unfamiliar codebase
- Automating code tasks in CI pipelines
Pros and considerations
Strengths
- Works where developers already are, including the terminal
- Handles multistep tasks end to end
- Highly configurable and scriptable
- Permission system keeps you in control
Things to check
- Heavy use can hit plan limits or raise API costs.
- Always review diffs before committing, especially for security-sensitive code.
- Broad permissions speed things up but increase risk, so configure them deliberately.
- Terminal-first workflow may feel unfamiliar to some users.
Claude Code pricing
Paid. Claude Code is included with paid Claude plans or billed through API usage, so check the official site for current pricing.
Who Claude Code is best for
Developers who want an AI agent that can plan and carry out real coding tasks across a codebase.
Independent listing by AI Agent Help, last reviewed October 2026. Features and pricing change; check the official website for the latest details. Spot something out of date? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
Is Claude Code free?
No. It is included with paid Claude plans or billed through Anthropic API usage. Check the official site for current options.
Does Claude Code work in VS Code?
Yes. Besides the terminal, Claude Code offers extensions for IDEs including VS Code and JetBrains IDEs.
Can Claude Code run commands on my machine?
Yes, with your permission. By default it asks before running commands or editing files, and you can configure what is allowed.