Kilo Code
The open-source AI coding agent for VS Code with 500+ models, bring-your-own-key and specialized modes — merging the best of Cline and Roo Code. A Claude Code and Cursor alternative.
Claude Code
CursorAbout Kilo Code
Kilo Code is an open-source AI coding agent for VS Code that pulls together the strengths of Cline and Roo Code — the projects it descends from — into one tool. It offers agentic, multi-file editing with specialized modes and access to 500+ models, so you can match the engine to the job.
You bring your own key or use its model routing, and you keep the transparent, approve-before-act workflow that makes open agents trustworthy. It's aimed at developers who want a batteries-included open agent without giving up control.
It's Apache-2.0 licensed with a fast-moving community and frequent updates. For a flexible, model-rich open alternative to Claude Code and Cursor inside VS Code, Kilo Code is a strong, up-and-coming choice.
Key features
- 500+ models — Access a huge range of models and bring your own key, matching the engine to each task.
- Specialized modes — Mode-based agents for planning, coding and debugging, inherited from Roo Code.
- Agentic multi-file edits — Plans and applies changes across files and runs commands inside VS Code.
- Transparent workflow — Approve edits and commands before they run — you stay in control.
The honest read
- Combines the strengths of Cline and Roo Code
- Access to 500+ models with bring-your-own-key
- Mode-based, agentic multi-file editing
- Apache-2.0 licensed with rapid updates
- Transparent, approve-before-act workflow
- Newer, with a smaller community than its parents
- You pay for your own model usage
- Tied to the VS Code ecosystem
- Feature set still stabilising
FAQ
Yes — Kilo Code is free and open source under the Apache-2.0 license. You only pay for the models you use.
Kilo Code descends from both and merges their strengths — agentic editing, modes and broad model access — into a single tool.
It offers access to 500+ models and supports bringing your own API key.
Yes — it plans and applies changes across files and runs commands, with your approval at each step.
Kilo Code is a VS Code extension, so it runs in VS Code and compatible editors.
TypeScript
VS Code
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