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Cline (2026)

Expert Reviewed
by Dr. William BobosLast reviewed: Oct 16, 2026

The Open Agent

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Overview

Cline is an open-source (Apache-2.0) AI coding agent. Use it as a native desktop app for macOS, Windows and Linux, as an editor extension for VS Code, Cursor and Windsurf (JetBrains in early access), as a CLI for terminals, scripts, cron jobs and CI pipelines, or embed it in your own products with its SDK. It works with Claude, GPT, Gemini, local models v...

Cline Code Assistance showing Code Assistance - The Open Agent

Key Features

IDE integration

Inline code completion speeds up development without breaking your flow. JavaScript/TypeScript

Broad platform coverage

Access Cline wherever your team works—no switching tools or devices required. Cline ships SDKs for JavaScript/TypeScript

Programmatic access

Official API docs and clear auth flows—ideal for custom automations.

Multi-language SDK support

Developers get client libraries that smooth integration work.

Built in the open

Teams can inspect the codebase and adapt Cline to specific environments.

Video Showcase

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About Cline

“The Open Agent”

Cline is an open-source code assistance tool developed by Cline Bot Inc. (US) designed for software developers, ai enthusiasts and privacy-conscious users. Cline is an open-source Code Assistance and AI Agents solution for software developers that runs as a desktop app, editor extension, CLI or SDK, works with any major or local model through your own keys or the Cline provider, and is free for individuals. Pricing: Free, Pay-per-Use, Enterprise. Cline follows a freemium / pay-per-use / enterprise pricing model, with plans starting with a free plan. It is available on Desktop App, Plugin/Integration and CLI Tool. Developer integration is supported through JavaScript/TypeScript SDKs. Cline integrates with VS Code, Cursor, Windsurf, JetBrains (early access), Ollama and 3 more. It competes in the same space as Claude Code, Codex and Cursor. Explore more code assistance tools or browse all categories.

Cline Snapshot

Key facts we track so you can judge fit before visiting the provider.

Primary category
Code Assistance
Best fit
Software Developers, AI Enthusiasts, Privacy-Conscious Users
Platforms
Desktop App, Plugin/Integration, CLI Tool
Provider context
Cline Bot Inc. - US
Known integrations
VS Code, Cursor, Windsurf, JetBrains (early access), Ollama +3 more
Developer access
API documentation, JavaScript/TypeScript
Data handling
Privacy policy linked

Before you choose Cline

  • Confirm Cline's current limits, renewal terms, and seat pricing on the official site.
  • Review privacy, retention, and data-processing terms before using sensitive data.
  • Test the integrations or API path against one real workflow before rollout.
  • Make sure the supported platform matches where your team actually works.

Listing data is compiled from structured provider information, public signals, submissions, and periodic checks where available. Treat this page as a shortlist aid, then verify pricing, compliance, and product limits with the provider before making a business-critical decision.

How Cline Works

Understanding the core functionality and approach of Cline.

Cline integrates directly into your development workflow via API and IDE extensions. Code suggestions, refactoring, and debugging happen where you already work. Integrations with VS Code, Cursor, and Windsurf keep Cline connected to your workflow.

Key Features

Explore what makes Cline stand out.

IDE integration

Inline code completion speeds up development without breaking your flow. JavaScript/TypeScript

Broad platform coverage

Access Cline wherever your team works—no switching tools or devices required. Cline ships SDKs for JavaScript/TypeScript alongside Desktop App, Plugin/Integration, and CLI Tool apps, so both end-users and developers are covered.

Programmatic access

Official API docs and clear auth flows—ideal for custom automations.

Multi-language SDK support

Developers get client libraries that smooth integration work.

Built in the open

Teams can inspect the codebase and adapt Cline to specific environments.

Use Cases

Discover how different audiences leverage Cline.

Software Developers

Generate boilerplate code

Cline suggests improvements during code reviews, reducing back-and-forth between team members.

AI Enthusiasts

Boost remote productivity

Cline bridges time zones and locations with async-friendly workflows.

Software Developers

Streamline coding workflows

With SDKs and webhooks, engineers connect Cline to deployments, CI/CD, and monitoring pipelines.

FAQ about Cline

What is Cline and what does it do?

Cline is The Open Agent. Cline is an open-source (Apache-2.0) AI coding agent. Use it as a native desktop app for macOS, Windows and Linux, as an editor extension for VS Code, Cursor and Windsurf (JetBrains in early access), as a CLI for terminals, scripts, cron jobs and CI pipelines, or embed it in your own products with its SDK. It works with Claude, GPT, Gemini, local models via Ollama or LM Studio, and any OpenAI-compatible endpoint, using your own API keys or the Cline provider. Available on Desktop App, Plugin/Integration, CLI Tool, Cline is designed to enhance productivity and deliver professional-grade code assistance capabilities.

How much does Cline cost?

Cline offers Freemium, Pay-per-Use, Enterprise pricing options. Free and open source for individual developers: no subscription or seat fees, you pay only for AI inference on a usage basis (Cline provider) or bring your own API keys. You can start with a free tier to test the platform before committing to a paid plan. For the most current pricing details and plan comparisons, visit the official Cline pricing page or contact their sales team for custom enterprise quotes. See also Free vs Paid AI Tools for guidance on choosing the right plan.

Is Cline secure and compliant with data privacy regulations?

Cline takes data privacy seriously and implements industry-standard security measures. For comprehensive details about data handling, encryption, and privacy practices, review their official privacy policy. Security and compliance are continuously updated to meet evolving industry standards.
What platforms does Cline support?
Cline is available on Desktop App, Plugin/Integration, CLI Tool. This multi-platform approach ensures you can use Cline wherever and however you work best.
How can I try Cline before purchasing?
The freemium model gives you access to essential features at no cost, with premium capabilities available through paid upgrades. Testing the platform before committing ensures it meets your specific requirements and integrates smoothly with your existing workflows. Support for English interface. makes it accessible to global users.
What file formats does Cline support?
Cline accepts Natural-language coding tasks in your editor, terminal, desktop app or through the SDK, on your local code. as input formats, making it compatible with your existing files and workflows. Output is delivered in Code edits, terminal commands and automated runs in scripts, cron jobs and CI pipelines., ensuring compatibility with downstream tools and platforms. This format flexibility allows seamless integration into diverse tech stacks and creative pipelines.
Who develops and maintains Cline?
Cline is developed and maintained by Cline Bot Inc., based in US. The tool was launched in 2026, and has since evolved through continuous updates and improvements. Most recently updated in October 2026, the platform remains actively maintained with regular feature releases and bug fixes. This ongoing commitment ensures Cline stays competitive and aligned with industry best practices.
How do I get access to Cline?
Cline is freely available to everyone without registration requirements. You can start using the platform immediately without going through lengthy approval processes.
How is usage measured and billed in Cline?
Cline uses Pay-as-You-Go as billing metrics. This usage model ensures you only pay for what you actually use, avoiding unnecessary overhead costs for features you don't need.
What deployment options does Cline offer?
Cline supports Desktop, Cloud deployment configurations. Cloud-hosted options provide instant scalability without infrastructure management overhead. Desktop applications offer offline capabilities and direct file system access. Choose the deployment model that best aligns with your technical requirements, security constraints, and operational preferences.

Stay updated with the latest news and insights about Cline and the AI industry.

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Providers can update product facts, pricing context, screenshots, and launch notes. Paid placements are labeled separately and do not replace editorial or data-quality review.

How to Evaluate Cline

Compare Cline with Claude Code, Codex, Cursor and other alternatives before you decide. The goal is not to pick the most popular product; it is to find the tool that fits your actual workflow, risk level, and budget.

  1. Step 1Test Cline with one real workflow before moving important work into it.
  2. Step 2Model the full monthly cost at your expected usage, including seats, limits, and overages.
  3. Step 3Verify the integration path with your existing stack before you commit.
  4. Step 4Review privacy, retention, and compliance terms before using sensitive data.

Use the video walkthrough to check whether the interface matches the claims. For developer teams, inspect the JavaScript/TypeScript SDK. Review the API documentation for auth, rate limits, errors, and export behavior. For broader context, browse more code assistance tools for software developers, or compare this page against the category hub. New to AI tool evaluation? Start with AI Tool Navigator.

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