Windsurf (formerly Codeium) vs Zed
The definitive head-to-head comparison for Vibe Coders.
Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
Zed
Windsurf (formerly Codeium) vs Zed 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 Windsurf (formerly Codeium) and Zed compete for builders who want fast, AI-assisted creation without losing control of their stack. Windsurf (formerly Codeium) leans on agentic cascade for multi-step coding with tool use while Zed emphasizes built in rust for speed, so this matchup helps clarify which strengths matter most for your next launch.
Feature and pricing takeaways
On pricing, Windsurf (formerly Codeium) offers free + pro $15/mo + teams $30/user/mo + enterprise $60/user/mo (credits model), whereas Zed lists free (open source core). Feature-wise, Windsurf (formerly Codeium) shines with agentic cascade for multi-step coding with tool use and windsurf tab + supercomplete autocomplete across ides, while Zed stands out for built in rust for speed and multi-llm support. 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 Windsurf (formerly Codeium) if you need Enterprise Development and want a stack centered on Developer IDEs & Agents. Pick Zed when you value Rust Developers 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.
Vibe Score Breakdown
Windsurf (formerly Codeium)
Zed
Feature Showdown
| Feature | Windsurf (formerly Codeium) | Zed |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free + Pro $15/mo + Teams $30/user/mo + Enterprise $60/user/mo (credits model) | Free (Open Source core) |
| Primary Category | Developer IDEs & Agents | Developer IDEs & Agents |
| Best For | Enterprise Development | Rust Developers |
| Key Strength | Agentic Cascade for multi-step coding with tool use | Built in Rust for speed |
| AI Model | Integrated | Integrated |
FAQs: Windsurf (formerly Codeium) vs Zed
- What is the main difference between Windsurf (formerly Codeium) and Zed?
- Windsurf (formerly Codeium) focuses on agentic cascade for multi-step coding with tool use while Zed highlights built in rust for speed. Both target developer ides & agents, but their onboarding, AI depth, and pricing models feel different.
- Which tool is better for speed and flow?
- Windsurf (formerly Codeium) leads in the Flow State dimension of the Vibe Score, so teams wanting fewer interruptions and faster loops should start there.
- How do Windsurf (formerly Codeium) and Zed compare on pricing?
- Windsurf (formerly Codeium) lists free + pro $15/mo + teams $30/user/mo + enterprise $60/user/mo (credits model), whereas Zed offers free (open source core). Consider which aligns with your budget and whether you need free tiers, seat-based plans, or bundled AI features.
- Who should choose Windsurf (formerly Codeium) vs Zed?
- Windsurf (formerly Codeium) fits teams that value Enterprise Development, while Zed suits those prioritizing Rust Developers. If you need category-specific guardrails, start with the tool that matches your daily workflows.
In summary, Windsurf (formerly Codeium) vs Zed 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.