Cursor vs Visual Studio Code
Updated 2026-09-03
Verdict
Visual Studio Code is free and open-source with a huge extension marketplace but no built-in AI (Copilot is a paid add-on); Cursor (Pro $20/month, free Hobby plan) is a VS Code-based editor with AI built in from the start. VS Code for a free, flexible editor; Cursor for an AI-native editing experience.
| Pricing | Cursor | Visual Studio Code |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | 20 USD | 0 USD |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux, Web |
Cursor — Pros
- AI agent with codebase context
- Uses VS Code extensions and keybindings
- Free Hobby plan with limited requests
Visual Studio Code — Pros
- Free and open-source (MIT license)
- Massive extension marketplace
- Built-in terminal, debugger, and Git support
Cursor — Cons
- Pro plan $20/mo with on-demand billing
- Proprietary, not open-source
Visual Studio Code — Cons
- AI features require a separate subscription (Copilot)
- Can be slow with many extensions
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FAQ
Is Cursor cheaper than Visual Studio Code?
Cursor starts at 20 USD (checked 2026-09-03); Visual Studio Code starts at 0 USD (checked 2026-09-03). Check the current pricing page for the latest tiers.
Do Cursor and Visual Studio Code have a free plan?
Both Cursor and Visual Studio Code offer — see the comparison table above.
What platforms does Cursor vs Visual Studio Code support?
Cursor is available on macOS, Windows, Linux. Visual Studio Code is available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Web.
Are Cursor and Visual Studio Code in the same category?
Yes. Both Cursor and Visual Studio Code are classified as development tools.