AIArsenal/Compare/Continue.dev vs Cursor

Continue.dev vs Cursor

Side-by-side comparison of free tiers, features, privacy, and company background. Updated for 2026.

Continue.dev

OSS

Open-source AI code assistant — bring your own model (local or cloud)

The best option for developers who want full control over which AI model powers their coding assistant. Works with local models via Ollama for complete privacy, or connect to any cloud provider. Ideal for privacy-conscious teams and self-hosters.

QUICK START

Install the Continue extension in VS Code → Configure a model provider (Ollama for local, or paste an API key) → Use Cmd+L to chat or Tab for completions

Try Continue.dev →View full listing →

Cursor

FEATURED

AI-first code editor with intelligent completions and refactoring

A VS Code fork built from the ground up around AI, offering multi-file editing, codebase-aware chat, and an agent mode that can run terminal commands. Best for developers who want the most polished AI-native editor experience.

QUICK START

Download Cursor from cursor.com → Import your VS Code settings and extensions → Open a project and press Cmd+K to start an AI edit

Try Cursor →View full listing →
SIDE-BY-SIDE

Feature comparison

Continue.devCursor
FREE TIERFully free; unlimited with local models via OllamaStarter plan: basic completions free
COMPANYContinue Dev, Inc.Anysphere
OPEN SOURCEYes ✓No
PRIVACYCan run 100% locally — best-in-class privacyCode sent to cloud; privacy mode on paid tiers
CATEGORYDeveloper ToolsDeveloper Tools
SUBCATEGORYCoding AssistantsCoding Assistants
DECISION GUIDE

Which should you pick?

Pick Continue.dev if…
  • ▸Developers prioritizing privacy via local AI models (e.g., Ollama).
  • ▸Users who demand full control over their coding assistant's AI model.
  • ▸Teams and self-hosters seeking an open-source, customizable code assistant.
Skip it if…
  • ✕Developers seeking a zero-setup, fully managed cloud-only coding assistant.
  • ✕Users unfamiliar or uncomfortable with local model setup (e.g., Ollama).
Pick Cursor if…
  • ▸Solo developers who want the most polished AI-native editor
  • ▸Codebase-aware chat and agent mode in a single UI
  • ▸Teams already paying for frontier model quality
Skip it if…
  • ✕Free-tier-only workflows — premium requests cap fast
  • ✕Privacy-critical code without upgrading to a paid tier
Still stuck? Ask AIArsenal — our conversational advisor considers your use case, budget, and privacy needs.ASK AI →+ COMPARE MORE TOOLS
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