Roo Code - AI-Powered Dev Team for VS Code

Roo Code is an open-source, AI-powered coding assistant that runs in VS Code. It goes beyond simple autocompletion by reading and writing across multiple files, executing commands, and adapting to your workflow—like having a whole dev team right inside your editor. The extension features auto-approval settings for streamlined workflows and demonstrates high autonomy through its ability to execute terminal commands, automate browser actions, edit files directly in workspace, and create custom tools via Model Context Protocol (MCP). Solo developers prefer it for comprehensive project automation without vendor lock-in costs.

Strengths

Completely free and open-source extension with costs only from AI model APIs if using paid providers
Ability to use different modes depending on the context, make direct changes on files and execute terminal commands
Access to free AI models including grok-code-fast-1 and code-supernova through Roo Code Cloud with no API keys required
Local VS Code integration means code never leaves your machine unless you connect to external AI API
Roomote Control feature lets you remotely control tasks running in your local VS Code instance
Model Context Protocol (MCP) support enables creation of custom tools for specialized workflows

Weaknesses

Limited to VS Code environment only, no web interface or other IDE support
Success depends heavily on context and complexity of requested features
Requires technical setup for optimal configuration with different AI providers
Documentation and community support smaller compared to commercial alternatives
Performance varies significantly based on chosen AI model and local setup

Best for

Solo developers and small teams who prioritize cost control, privacy, and VS Code workflow integration.

Pricing plans

Free Plan — $0/month — Open-source extension with no cost, only pay for AI model usage if using paid APIs
Roo Code Cloud — Free — Free AI models during promotional period, no API keys required

Tech details

Type: VS Code extension with agentic AI capabilities
IDEs: Visual Studio Code only
Key features: Multi-file reading/writing, command execution, workflow adaptation, terminal commands, browser automation, direct file editing, Model Context Protocol
Privacy / hosting: Local VS Code installation, code stays on machine unless using external AI APIs
Models / context window: Supports grok-code-fast-1, code-supernova, compatible with OpenAI, Gemini, DeepSeek, and other providers, context varies by model

When to choose this over Windsurf

You need a completely free solution without subscription costs for the core functionality
Privacy is critical and you want code to remain on your local machine
You prefer open-source tools with full customization control and community-driven development

When Windsurf may be a better fit

You need multi-IDE support beyond VS Code for diverse development environments
You want integrated web interface capabilities alongside desktop functionality
You prefer commercial support and guaranteed service level agreements for business use

Conclusion

Roo Code transforms software development through AI orchestration, boosting productivity with specialized modes for coding, architecture, and debugging. It stands out among Windsurf alternatives by offering comprehensive agentic capabilities at no cost. The ability to make direct changes on files and execute terminal commands offers significant advantages for productivity. However, success depends on proper configuration and understanding of its VS Code-centric limitations.