A
AIverse
code

Cline

4.7/5Free & open-source (Apache-2.0, BYOK)
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A free, open-source AI coding agent embedded in VS Code and JetBrains. It plans changes, edits files and runs commands with explicit per-change approval, and works with any model including local ones via Ollama or LM Studio.

What is Cline?

A free, open-source AI coding agent embedded in VS Code and JetBrains. It plans changes, edits files and runs commands with explicit per-change approval, and works with any model including local ones via Ollama or LM Studio.

Cline sits in the code category and is listed in the AIverse AI tools directory, where it holds an editorial rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on its capabilities, usability, value for money and reliability. It is developed by Cline, founded in 2024.

Cline features and use cases

People typically use Cline for In-editor agentic coding, Reviewing each change before applying, Using local/private models and Refactors and feature work.

It is often associated with Coding Agent, Open Source, VS Code, JetBrains and BYOK.

Cline pricing

Cline is completely free (Free & open-source (Apache-2.0, BYOK)). You can use it without a subscription.

As with any AI tool, the right plan depends on how heavily you use it. We recommend trying Cline before committing to a paid plan.

Is Cline worth it? Our bottom line

Overall, Cline is an excellent choice in the code category for 2026. Its standout strengths include Embedded in VS Code & JetBrains and Explicit approval for every change. Bear in mind You pay underlying model API costs and Can be token-hungry on big tasks. If it matches your workflow, Cline is well worth a try — especially since you can start for free.

✅ Our verdict

Cline is the best open-source agent for developers who want the AI inside their editor with full control — approving each edit and command. Pick it over OpenCode if you prefer VS Code/JetBrains and explicit, reviewable changes over a terminal workflow.

👍 Pros

  • +Embedded in VS Code & JetBrains
  • +Explicit approval for every change
  • +Any model (Claude, GPT, Gemini, local)
  • +Free and Apache-2.0 licensed
  • +Plan/Act modes for control

👎 Cons

  • −You pay underlying model API costs
  • −Can be token-hungry on big tasks
  • −Less autonomous than cloud agents
  • −Setup needed for local models

🎯 Use cases

In-editor agentic codingReviewing each change before applyingUsing local/private modelsRefactors and feature work

💡 Expert tips

  • ★Use Plan mode first to review Cline’s strategy, then switch to Act — it prevents costly wrong turns on big tasks.
  • ★Run a local model via Ollama for private codebases you cannot send to a cloud API.

ℹ️ Key facts

Company
Cline
Founded
2024

Last updated: Jun 2026

4.7
Rating
14.0k
Views
Free
Pricing

🔀 Compare Cline with

ClinevsGitHub CopilotClinevsCursorClinevsBolt.newClinevsLovableClinevsWindsurf

Try Cline Now

A free, open-source AI coding agent embedded in VS Code and JetBrains. It plans changes, edits files and runs commands with explicit per-change approval, and works with any model including local ones via Ollama or LM Studio.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cline free?

Yes, Cline is completely free to use, with no paid plan required to access its core features.

What is Cline used for?

Cline is an AI coding tool. A free, open-source AI coding agent embedded in VS Code and JetBrains. It plans changes, edits files and runs commands with explicit per-change approval, and works with any model including local ones via Ollama or LM Studio. It currently holds a 4.7/5 rating on Aiverse from real users.

Is Cline worth it in 2026?

Yes — Cline holds a strong 4.7/5 rating on Aiverse, making it one of the top-rated coding tools in 2026. It's a solid pick if it matches your use case.