Decision tool

Which AI coding setup fits me?

The right AI coding setup depends on how close the AI should be to your repository and how much authority you want it to have.

Use chat when learning

• ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are good for explanations, examples, planning, and reviewing unfamiliar concepts.
• They are weaker when they cannot inspect the real repo or run verification.

Use an AI editor for daily changes

• Cursor, Windsurf, and Copilot fit day-to-day coding when you want edits inside your editor.
• This is usually the best first upgrade from plain chat.

Use a coding agent for multi-file tasks

• Claude Code, Codex, and OpenHands make more sense when the agent must inspect files, run commands, and return a coherent diff.
• Only use this when you have tests, lint, build checks, or a clear manual verification path.