Aider
Open-source AI pair programmer that edits code in your terminal with git commits
What is Aider?
Aider is an open-source AI pair programmer that runs in your terminal and edits code in your local git repository. It works with many LLMs, maps your codebase for context and commits each change so you can review or undo it. It is free to use; you pay only for the model API you connect.
Pros
- Every edit is a git commit you can undo
- Works with most model providers
- Lightweight, no editor lock-in
Cons
- Development has slowed in 2026
- Less autonomous than newer agents
- No built-in team features
Where Aider ranks
Alternatives
Aider alternatives
Cline
Open-source coding agent for VS Code that uses any model you bring
Jules
Google's asynchronous coding agent that works on your GitHub repo and opens PRs
OpenAI Codex
OpenAI's coding agent for the terminal, IDE and cloud, included in every ChatGPT plan
Bolt
Prompt-to-app builder from StackBlitz that runs full-stack apps in the browser
Claude Code
Anthropic's coding agent that edits, runs and ships code from your terminal or IDE
Cursor
AI code editor with an agent that makes changes across your whole project
Aider FAQ
What is Aider?
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Aider is an open-source AI pair programmer that runs in your terminal and edits code in your local git repository. It works with many LLMs, maps your codebase for context and commits each change so you can review or undo it. It is free to use; you pay only for the model API you connect.
How much does Aider cost?
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Aider is open source. Free (Apache-2.0); bring your own model API key.
Is Aider free?
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Yes. Aider is open source and free to self-host; you pay only for the model API and hosting you use.
Is Aider an autonomous AI agent?
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We rate Aider as "Assistant": helps you do the work; you stay in the loop on every step.
What are the best Aider alternatives?
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Popular alternatives to Aider are Cline, Jules, OpenAI Codex, Bolt, Claude Code.