Best GitHub Copilot Alternatives

GitHub Copilot is the AI pair programmer built into GitHub, VS Code, and JetBrains. If it doesn't fit your pricing, workflow, or feature needs, here are 2 alternatives worth comparing — including options with a free plan.

Looking for the original? See the full GitHub Copilot listing.

At a Glance

ToolBest forPricingFree planOpen sourcevs GitHub Copilot
Cursor logoCursorDevelopers who want AI central to how they codeFreemium · from $20/moA dedicated AI editor with more aggressive multi-file agent powers, preferred by many full-time builders.
Windsurf logoWindsurfDevelopers who want an agent-first editorFreemium · from $20/moAgent-first editor (now Devin Desktop by Cognition) with the Cascade workflow and a free tier, though Pro costs more than Copilot's $10.

Quick Picks

Best free alternative
Cursor

A dedicated AI editor with more aggressive multi-file agent powers, preferred by many full-time builders.

All GitHub Copilot Alternatives

Cursor

Cursor

Your coding agent for building ambitious software — an AI-native editor with agents, Tab completion, and codebase understanding.

FreemiumAICode Editor
Compare GitHub Copilot vs Cursor
Windsurf

Windsurf

Now Devin Desktop by Cognition — the AI-native editor you knew as Windsurf, with the Cascade agent and a fleet command center.

FreemiumAICode Editor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best GitHub Copilot alternative?

Cursor is the top-listed GitHub Copilot alternative on this page — a dedicated AI editor with more aggressive multi-file agent powers, preferred by many full-time builders. The right choice depends on your budget, workflow, and required integrations, so compare the table above before deciding.

Is there a free alternative to GitHub Copilot?

Yes. Cursor offers a free plan, with paid plans from $20/mo. Other listings may also include free tiers — check the Free plan column in the comparison table.

Is there an open-source alternative to GitHub Copilot?

None of the alternatives listed here are open source at the moment. If self-hosting matters to you, check each tool's documentation for deployment options.

How were these GitHub Copilot alternatives selected?

Each alternative solves a similar core task and is an active listing in the directory. The one-line difference next to each tool summarizes how it diverges from GitHub Copilot in pricing, focus, or capability.