AI Coding Assistants Compared: Cursor vs Copilot vs Claude Code

The AI-Assisted Development Landscape

2024-2025 brought an explosion of AI coding tools. For LaunchKit developers, the question isn't whether to use AI—it's which tool fits your workflow best.

We've tested the major options with LaunchKit. Here's what works best for different scenarios.

Cursor

Best for: Full-featured AI-native development

• Pros: Deep codebase understanding, multi-file editing, excellent chat, VS Code compatibility
• Cons: Subscription required, separate app from VS Code
• Price: Free tier, $20/month Pro

LaunchKit verdict: Best overall experience. The @codebase command understands LaunchKit's architecture instantly. Composer handles multi-file features seamlessly.

GitHub Copilot

Best for: Inline completions while coding

• Pros: Excellent completions, works in VS Code, familiar workflow
• Cons: Chat is less powerful than Cursor, no multi-file editing
• Price: $10/month individual, free for students/OSS

LaunchKit verdict: Great for experienced developers who know what they want. Write a comment, get the implementation. Less useful for exploring unfamiliar code.

Claude Code

Best for: Terminal-first development

• Pros: Runs in terminal, executes commands, handles git, no IDE required
• Cons: Usage-based pricing, no visual interface
• Price: Pay per token used

LaunchKit verdict: Perfect for developers who live in the terminal. Excellent at chained operations: "create the file, run tests, commit if passing."

Windsurf (Codeium)

Best for: Free AI-assisted development

• Pros: Generous free tier, cascade multi-file editing, VS Code-based
• Cons: Newer tool, smaller community
• Price: Free tier available, Pro $15/month

LaunchKit verdict: Solid Cursor alternative with better free tier. Cascade works well for LaunchKit multi-file features.

Our Recommendations

• New to AI coding? Start with Cursor—best learning curve and capabilities
• VS Code power user? GitHub Copilot integrates seamlessly into your existing workflow
• Terminal devotee? Claude Code is your jam
• Budget conscious? Windsurf's free tier is surprisingly capable
• Maximum power? Cursor Pro with Claude 3.5 Sonnet

The Bottom Line

All these tools work well with LaunchKit. The codebase is clean, well-typed, and follows consistent patterns—exactly what AI assistants need to be effective.

Pick the tool that matches your preferred workflow. The productivity gains are real regardless of which you choose.