Cursor - AI Code Editor and Windsurf Alternatives

Cursor is an AI-powered code editor that deeply integrates large language models into your development workflow. It works like regular code editors but adds integrations with large language models (LLMs) that makes writing, editing, and understanding code easier and faster. Solo developers prefer it for its seamless AI assistance and context-aware completions that reduce manual coding effort.

Strengths

Real-time AI completions and chat assistance integrated directly into the editor
Access to powerful AI models like GPT-4, GPT-4o, and Claude 3.5 Sonnet
Model Context Protocol support for extensibility and external context integration
Automatic conversation summarization when reaching context window limits
Multi-file editing capabilities with project-wide understanding
Built on VS Code foundation providing familiar interface and extensions

Weaknesses

Monthly subscription required for premium AI models and features
Premium requests are limited (500 fast premium requests per month on Pro plan)
Requires internet connection for AI features to function
Learning curve for effectively using AI-assisted workflows
Can encourage over-reliance on AI suggestions

Best for

Solo developers and small teams seeking AI-powered coding acceleration with familiar VS Code experience.

Pricing plans

Free — $0/month — 200 completions, limited premium requests
Pro — $20/month — 500 fast premium requests, unlimited completions
Pro+ — $60/month — Enhanced model access and capabilities
Ultra — $200/month — Power user tier with maximum model capacity

Tech details

Type: AI-powered code editor (VS Code fork)
IDEs: Standalone application based on VS Code architecture
Key features: AI chat, tab completion, multi-file editing, context awareness, agent workflows
Privacy / hosting: Cloud-based AI processing, code sent to model providers
Models / context window: GPT-4, GPT-4o, Claude 3.5 Sonnet, context windows vary by model (typically 128k-200k tokens)

When to choose this over Windsurf

You need proven AI coding capabilities with established model integrations
VS Code familiarity is important for your workflow
You want extensive community resources and documentation

When Windsurf may be a better fit

You prefer integrated development environments over VS Code-based solutions
Cost sensitivity makes subscription pricing prohibitive
You need specific features that Windsurf offers but Cursor lacks

Conclusion

Cursor delivers mature AI-assisted coding through a familiar VS Code interface. Its integration with leading language models makes it effective for accelerating development workflows. The pricing tiers accommodate different usage levels from casual to power users.