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Tools · Comparison

Continue vs Aider

Both are code assistant tools. Here is what separates them.

ContinueAider
What it isAn open-source assistant for VS Code and JetBrains that you point at whichever model you want, including local ones.An open-source pair programmer in the terminal that edits your files and commits each change to git.
CategoryCode AssistantCode Assistant
PricingFree · Free · self-hostedFree · Free · model API costs apply
How it billsFreeFree
Free tierYesYes
RatingNot yet ratedNot yet rated
Features
  • Works with hosted or local models
  • VS Code and JetBrains extensions
  • Configuration as a file in your repo
  • Custom context providers
  • No telemetry by default
  • Every edit becomes a git commit
  • Repository map for context selection
  • Works with most model APIs
  • Voice input
  • Runs and reads test output
What works
  • Code never has to leave your machine
  • No subscription
  • Model choice is entirely yours
  • Undo is just git revert
  • No subscription beyond model costs
  • Editor-agnostic
What does not
  • Requires setup and a model to point at
  • Quality depends on what you connect
  • Fewer conveniences than commercial editors
  • Terminal-only, no GUI
  • You manage the API keys and costs
  • Steeper start than an editor plugin

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