Roo Code
An open-source AI coding agent for VS Code with custom modes and support for many model providers.
What is Roo Code?
Roo Code is an open-source AI agent that runs inside VS Code. It can read your project, edit multiple files, run terminal commands and use a browser, with customizable modes such as Code, Architect, Ask and Debug.
Roo Code began as a fork of Cline and grew its own community and features. It is popular with developers who want control over models and behavior.
Modes let the agent take on different roles, from planning architecture to writing code or debugging, and you can create your own modes.
It works with many model providers, so you can choose based on cost and quality.
Approval settings let you decide which actions need confirmation.
Key features of Roo Code
- Custom modes: Different roles with their own instructions and permissions.
- Multi-file edits: Changes across your codebase.
- Terminal and browser: Runs commands and checks web pages.
- Many providers: Use the model of your choice.
- Open source: Community-driven development.
What you can use Roo Code for
- Feature development in VS Code
- Debugging
- Planning refactors
- Trying different models
Pros and considerations
Strengths
- Highly customizable
- Free and open source
- Active community
Things to check
- Model costs depend on usage.
- Settings can be overwhelming.
- Review all changes before committing.
Roo Code pricing
Open source. The extension is free and open source; you pay your model provider, and optional cloud features may have their own pricing.
Who Roo Code is best for
VS Code developers who want a customizable, open-source coding agent.
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 Spot something out of date?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 Roo Code free?
Yes, it is open source; you pay for model usage.
How is Roo Code related to Cline?
It started as a fork of Cline.
Which editor does it support?
It is a VS Code extension.