Head-to-Head Comparison
Cursor vs Windsurf: Battle of AI-First IDEs
Both are AI-first IDEs built for modern development. Cursor has more mature features and larger community, while Windsurf offers competitive pricing and innovative Cascade feature for autonomous coding.
Last updated: 2025-01
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Cursor | Windsurf |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Mature AI IDE | Autonomous coding |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| Pricing | Free tier + $20/mo | Free tier + $15/mo |
| Interface | VS Code fork | VS Code fork |
| Autonomy | Good | Excellent |
| Community | Large | Growing |
| Model Options | Multiple models | Multiple models |
Cursor
- Best For
- Mature AI IDE
- Learning Curve
- Easy
- Pricing
- Free tier + $20/mo
- Interface
- VS Code fork
- Autonomy
- Good
- Community
- Large
- Model Options
- Multiple models
Windsurf
- Best For
- Autonomous coding
- Learning Curve
- Easy
- Pricing
- Free tier + $15/mo
- Interface
- VS Code fork
- Autonomy
- Excellent
- Community
- Growing
- Model Options
- Multiple models
Winner by Category
Best for Beginners
TieBoth have gentle learning curves
Best for Customisation
CursorMore extensions and integrations
Best for Speed
WindsurfCascade feature handles more autonomously
Best for Learning
CursorMore tutorials and community resources
Best Value
WindsurfSlightly lower paid tier
Our Recommendation
Cursor is the safer choice with proven track record. Try Windsurf if you want more autonomous AI assistance at a lower price.
When to Choose Each Tool
1
Choose Cursor
Want stability and community support
2
Choose Windsurf
Prefer more autonomous AI workflows
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