What is Cursor?
Cursor is a fork of VS Code rebuilt around AI, with fast tab completion, codebase-aware chat and an agent that edits many files at once. It supports frontier models from several providers and background agents that work in the cloud.
Best for: Professional developers, Startups, Vibe coders.
Key features
- Tab autocomplete
- Agent mode
- Codebase indexing
- Background agents
- Bugbot code review
- Rules and memories
Pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent autocomplete quality
- Familiar VS Code experience and extensions
- Strong multi-file refactoring
Cons
- Usage-based limits on heavy agent use
- Pricing changes have frustrated some users
Cursor pricing
| Pricing model | Free plan |
|---|---|
| Starting price | $20/mo |
| Platforms | Mac, Windows, Linux |
| Launched | 2023 |
Prices change often. Check the Cursor website for current plans.
Our verdict
Cursor scores 9.4/10 in our review. Its biggest strength: excellent autocomplete quality. The main drawback: usage-based limits on heavy agent use. If it isn't the right fit, ChatGPT is the closest alternative.
Cursor compared
Frequently asked questions
What is Cursor?
Cursor is a fork of VS Code rebuilt around AI, with fast tab completion, codebase-aware chat and an agent that edits many files at once. It supports frontier models from several providers and background agents that work in the cloud.
Is Cursor free?
Cursor has a free plan with limits; paid plans start at $20/mo.
What are the best Cursor alternatives?
Popular alternatives include ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, Claude Code, Claude.
Who is Cursor best for?
Cursor is best for professional developers, startups, vibe coders.