Cursor
The AI Code Editor. A VS Code fork that predicts edits.
Cursor vs Windsurf at a Glance
| Feature | Cursor | Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | The AI Code Editor. A VS Code fork that predicts edits. | AI-first IDE for agentic coding. |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Free option | Yes | Yes |
| Our rating | 4.9 / 5 | 4.7 / 5 |
| Current deal | Free Tier | Free Tier Available |
| Tags | IDE, Coding, Local, VS Code | IDE, Agentic, AI-First, Developer |
Cursor: Pros and Cons
- Privacy mode available
- VS Code extensions
- Codebase indexing
- Multi-file editing
- Claude/GPT-4 support
- Requires API key for heavy use
- Another subscription
Windsurf: Pros and Cons
- Agentic coding
- Multi-file changes
- Full codebase context
- Command execution
- Built on VS Code
- New product
- Learning curve
Choose Cursor if
Choose Cursor if you want a proven AI editor with a large user base, predictable behavior, and a privacy mode for sensitive codebases. It is the better fit if you prefer to stay in control, editing with AI predictions and chat rather than handing tasks to an agent. Pick it when stability and model choice matter more than cutting-edge autonomy.
Choose Windsurf if
Choose Windsurf if you like delegating whole tasks, such as adding a feature across several files and running the tests, to an agent that iterates on feedback. It suits developers who are comfortable with a newer product and a short learning curve in exchange for a more hands-off workflow. Pick it when command execution and full-codebase context are the features you will use daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windsurf better than Cursor for agentic coding?
Windsurf was designed around agentic coding from the start, so its Cascade agent is the more natural fit when you want the tool to plan, edit multiple files, run commands, and keep iterating until the task is done. Cursor also offers multi-file editing and has added agent-style features, but its core experience still centers on the editor and chat. If autonomy is your priority, Windsurf; if precision and control, Cursor.
Can I switch from Cursor to Windsurf without losing my setup?
Mostly, yes. Both are built on VS Code, so your keybindings, themes, and most extensions carry over, and your repositories open the same way. What does not transfer is tool-specific state such as Cursor's indexed codebase, chat history, and custom rules, which you will need to recreate in Windsurf. Many developers run both for a week on the same project before deciding which workflow they prefer.
Which is cheaper, Cursor or Windsurf?
Both are freemium with a free tier, so you can try either without paying. The main cost difference shows up with heavy use: Cursor notes that intensive usage may require your own API key, adding usage-based spending on top of the subscription. Windsurf's free tier is described as available for ongoing use, though as a newer product its plan structure may change. For light daily use, neither should cost you anything to evaluate.