Cline
Open-source autonomous coding agent for VS Code that plans, edits files and runs commands with your approval.
What is Cline?
Cline is an open-source AI coding agent that runs inside Visual Studio Code. It can read your project, create and edit files, run terminal commands and use a browser to test your app, asking for approval at each step. You bring your own model provider, such as Anthropic, OpenAI, Google or local models.
Cline (formerly Claude Dev) became one of the most popular open-source coding agents for VS Code. Instead of suggesting single lines, it takes on whole tasks: you describe a feature or bug, and Cline explores the codebase, proposes a plan and makes changes.
A key part of Cline's design is human approval. By default it shows each file edit as a diff and asks before running commands, so you can accept, reject or give feedback. Plan mode lets you discuss an approach first, and Act mode carries it out.
Cline works with many model providers through your own API keys, including services like OpenRouter and local models through tools such as Ollama. It supports the Model Context Protocol (MCP), so you can add tools like databases or documentation search. Checkpoints let you roll back changes if a task goes wrong.
Because you pay model providers directly, costs depend on the model and how much you use it. Cline also offers paid options for teams and enterprises.
Key features of Cline
- Autonomous task execution: Plans and carries out multistep coding tasks across files.
- Plan and Act modes: Discuss an approach first, then let Cline implement it.
- Approval at each step: Review diffs and commands before they are applied.
- Bring your own model: Use many providers or local models with your own keys.
- MCP support: Extend Cline with external tools and data sources.
- Checkpoints: Compare and restore workspace states during a task.
What you can use Cline for
- Building features from a written description
- Fixing bugs and failing tests
- Exploring and explaining an unfamiliar codebase
- Using local models for private coding work
- Automating repetitive refactors
Pros and considerations
Strengths
- Free and open source
- Flexible model choice, including local models
- Clear approval workflow keeps you in control
- Active community and frequent updates
Things to check
- API costs can add up with large contexts and premium models.
- Quality depends heavily on the model you choose.
- Auto-approving actions saves time but increases risk.
- Works inside VS Code and compatible editors, not as a standalone app.
Cline pricing
Open source. The Cline extension is free and open source, and you pay your chosen model provider for usage; check the official site for any team or enterprise pricing.
Who Cline is best for
Developers who want a transparent, open-source coding agent in VS Code with full control over models and costs.
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 Cline free?
The Cline extension is free and open source. You pay your chosen AI model provider for usage, unless you use a local model.
Which models does Cline support?
Cline supports many providers, including Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, OpenRouter and local models through tools like Ollama.
What is the difference between Cline and Roo Code?
Roo Code started as a fork of Cline and adds its own modes and features. Both are open-source coding agents for VS Code.