TL;DR: Cline is a free, open-source AI coding agent for VS Code with 4M+ installs. It works with any AI provider (Claude, GPT, Gemini, local models) and can autonomously create files, run commands, and browse the web — all with human-in-the-loop approvals. View Cline tool page
What Is Cline?
Cline (formerly Claude Dev) is an open-source VS Code extension that turns your editor into an autonomous AI coding environment. Unlike traditional autocomplete tools, Cline can independently create and edit files, execute terminal commands, and even control a browser — while asking for your approval at each step.
With over 4 million VS Code installs, it's one of the fastest-growing AI coding tools of 2026. The key differentiator: it's completely free and model-agnostic. Bring your own API key from Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, or run local models through Ollama.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Autonomous File Editing | Creates, modifies, and deletes files based on your instructions |
| Terminal Execution | Runs shell commands, installs packages, runs tests |
| Browser Automation | Opens browsers, takes screenshots, interacts with web pages |
| Human-in-the-Loop | Every action requires your approval before execution |
| Model Agnostic | Works with Claude, GPT, Gemini, Ollama, and more |
| Context Management | Reads your codebase, understands project structure |
Cline vs Cursor vs GitHub Copilot
| Aspect | Cline | Cursor | GitHub Copilot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (BYOK) | $20/mo | $10/mo |
| Editor | VS Code extension | Standalone (VS Code fork) | VS Code plugin |
| Autonomous Actions | Yes (with approval) | Limited | No |
| Model Choice | Any provider | Multiple built-in | GitHub models only |
| Open Source | Yes | No | No |
| Best For | Power users, BYOK | All-in-one experience | Quick completions |
How to Get Started
- Install the Cline extension from VS Code marketplace
- Add your API key (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, or Ollama)
- Open the Cline panel and describe your task in natural language
- Review and approve each action Cline proposes
Pricing
Cline itself is completely free. You pay only for the AI model API calls you make. Typical costs depend on your provider:
- Claude Sonnet: ~$3-8/day for heavy usage
- GPT-4o: ~$2-5/day
- Local models (Ollama): Free (requires hardware)
Try Cline
Ready to try the most popular open-source AI coding agent? Visit Cline's official website or view Cline tool page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cline really free?
Yes, Cline is completely free and open-source. You only pay for the AI API calls to your chosen provider (Anthropic, OpenAI, etc.).
Can Cline replace Cursor?
For power users comfortable with VS Code, Cline offers similar agentic capabilities without switching editors. Cursor provides a more polished all-in-one experience.
Is Cline safe to use?
Cline uses a human-in-the-loop approach — every file change, command execution, and browser action requires your explicit approval before proceeding.
