Coding comparison
OpenAI Codex vs Windsurf
Our pick: OpenAI Codex scores 9.0/10 against 8.7/10 for Windsurf. Here's how they differ and which one fits your needs.
VS
At a glance
| OpenAI Codex | Windsurf | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| Best for | Developers using ChatGPT, Engineering teams | Professional developers, Students |
| Type | Coding agents | AI IDEs |
| Pricing | Paid | Free plan |
| Starting price | $20/mo | $15/mo |
| Platforms | Web, Mac, Linux, Windows, VS Code | Mac, Windows, Linux |
| Launched | 2025 | 2024 |
Key features
OpenAI Codex
- Cloud task sandboxes
- Codex CLI
- IDE extension
- GitHub PR creation
- Code review
Windsurf
- Cascade agent
- Supercomplete autocomplete
- Previews and deploys
- Memories
- JetBrains plugin
OpenAI Codex: pros and cons
Pros
- Included with ChatGPT paid plans
- Runs many tasks in parallel
- Open-source CLI
Cons
- Cloud tasks can be slow for small edits
- Best features need higher ChatGPT tiers
Windsurf: pros and cons
Pros
- Polished agent flow
- Generous free tier
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Ownership changes created roadmap uncertainty
- Credit system can be confusing
Verdict: OpenAI Codex or Windsurf?
Choose OpenAI Codex if you're developers using chatgpt or engineering teams and value included with ChatGPT paid plans.
Choose Windsurf if you're professional developers or students and value polished agent flow.
Overall we rate OpenAI Codex slightly higher. Both are worth trying, and at least one has a free plan or trial. See all Coding tools for more options.
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