Aider vs Continue.dev
A comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right AI tool in 2026.
Our Pick
Aider
Aider scores higher with a rating of 8.2/10
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Aider | Continue.dev |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 8.2/10 | 8/10 |
| Pricing Model | free | free |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| Free Trial | Yes | Yes |
| Founded | 2023 | 2023 |
Aider
Open-source AI pair programming in your terminal that works with multiple LLMs to edit code in your local git repository.
Pros
- + Completely free and open source
- + Works with any LLM
- + Automatic git commits
- + Strong community support
Cons
- - Requires LLM API keys (paid separately)
- - Terminal-only interface
- - Steeper learning curve
Continue.dev
Open-source AI code assistant that allows you to connect any LLM to your VS Code or JetBrains IDE.
Pros
- + Fully open source and free
- + Connect any LLM including local models
- + Highly customizable
- + Active development community
Cons
- - Requires LLM API configuration
- - Less polished than commercial tools
- - Documentation can be lacking
Aider vs Continue.dev: The Bottom Line
Both Aider and Continue.dev are powerful AI tools, but they serve slightly different needs. Aider excels at completely free and open source, while Continue.dev stands out for fully open source and free.
Your choice should depend on your specific requirements, budget, and the features that matter most to your workflow.