Cline vs Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
The definitive head-to-head comparison for Vibe Coders.
Cline

Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
Cline vs Windsurf (formerly Codeium) comparison: discover which platform fits your Vibe Coding workflow with a quick snapshot of pricing, categories, and standout strengths. This head-to-head overview highlights what makes each option unique so searchers and builders immediately see the differentiators.
The Winner
Windsurf (formerly Codeium) is the Vibe Coding Champion
Why these tools are being compared
Both Cline and Windsurf (formerly Codeium) compete for builders who want fast, AI-assisted creation without losing control of their stack. Cline leans on autonomous multi-step coding tasks from natural language while Windsurf (formerly Codeium) emphasizes agentic cascade for multi-step coding with tool use, so this matchup helps clarify which strengths matter most for your next launch.
Feature and pricing takeaways
On pricing, Cline offers free (requires api key), whereas Windsurf (formerly Codeium) lists free + pro. Feature-wise, Cline shines with autonomous multi-step coding tasks from natural language and create, edit, and delete files with human approval, while Windsurf (formerly Codeium) stands out for agentic cascade for multi-step coding with tool use and windsurf tab + supercomplete autocomplete across ides. If you care about AI speed and responsiveness, compare the Vibe Score dimensions below to see which tool keeps your flow steady.
Who should choose each tool
Choose Cline if you need Agentic Workflows and want a stack centered on AI Assistants & Code Review. Pick Windsurf (formerly Codeium) when you value Enterprise Development and prefer a tool that matches Developer IDEs & Agents. If you simply want the highest overall Vibe Score, the winner banner above makes that choice obvious.
Interface Comparison
Cline

Windsurf (formerly Codeium)

Side-by-side interface comparison
Vibe Score Breakdown
Cline
Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
Feature Showdown
| Feature | Cline | Windsurf (formerly Codeium) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free (requires API key) | Free + Pro |
| Trusted Rating | N/A | 4.2/5 (G2) |
| Primary Category | AI Assistants & Code Review | Developer IDEs & Agents |
| Best For | Agentic Workflows | Enterprise Development |
| Key Strength | Autonomous multi-step coding tasks from natural language | Agentic Cascade for multi-step coding with tool use |
| AI Model | Integrated | Integrated |
FAQs: Cline vs Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
- What is the main difference between Cline and Windsurf (formerly Codeium)?
- Cline focuses on autonomous multi-step coding tasks from natural language while Windsurf (formerly Codeium) highlights agentic cascade for multi-step coding with tool use. Both target vibe coding workflows, but their onboarding, AI depth, and pricing models feel different.
- Which tool is better for speed and flow?
- Check the Vibe Score Breakdown above; higher flow and speed numbers signal smoother iteration for your team.
- How do Cline and Windsurf (formerly Codeium) compare on pricing?
- Cline lists free (requires api key), whereas Windsurf (formerly Codeium) offers free + pro. Consider which aligns with your budget and whether you need free tiers, seat-based plans, or bundled AI features.
- Who should choose Cline vs Windsurf (formerly Codeium)?
- Cline fits teams that value Agentic Workflows, while Windsurf (formerly Codeium) suits those prioritizing Enterprise Development. If you need category-specific guardrails, start with the tool that matches your daily workflows.
In summary, Cline vs Windsurf (formerly Codeium) comes down to how you prioritize speed, AI assistance, and pricing flexibility. Scan the feature showdown, Vibe Score charts, and FAQs to match your workflow, then jump into the free trials to feel which experience delivers the best vibe.
Looking for more options?
Explore comprehensive alternative guides for both tools to find the perfect fit for your needs
Cline Alternatives
Compare Cline with other AI Assistants & Code Review tools and find the best alternative for your workflow
Windsurf (formerly Codeium) Alternatives
Compare Windsurf (formerly Codeium) with other Developer IDEs & Agents tools and find the best alternative for your workflow
Ready to make your choice?
Try both tools for free and discover which one fits your vibe coding workflow
Cline
Cline - Autonomous AI Coding Agent for VS Code
Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
Windsurf (formerly Codeium): Agentic AI IDE with Cascade & Tab