Overview
Continue is an open-source AI coding assistant available as plugins for VS Code and JetBrains. It has been acquired by Cursor, and its core selling point is that it is not tied to any specific model—you can integrate Claude, GPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, or even use local models via Ollama for zero-cost AI coding.
Continue supports autocomplete, conversational coding, Agent mode, and the MCP protocol. For developers who value privacy (local models) and cost control, it is the best open-source alternative to GitHub Copilot.
Key Features
- Complete Model Freedom: Integrate Claude, GPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, or local models via Ollama, with no vendor lock-in
- Code Completion: Context-aware intelligent code completion, with Tab key to accept suggestions
- Agent Mode: Supports Agent mode for autonomous execution of multi-step programming tasks
- MCP Support: Supports Model Context Protocol to connect external tools and data sources
- Multi-IDE Support: Supports both VS Code and the entire JetBrains suite
- Completely Free and Open Source: Apache 2.0 license, fully transparent
Use Cases
- Developers who want to protect privacy using local models
- Individual developers and students seeking zero-cost AI coding
- Tech users who need flexible switching between different LLMs
- Free open-source alternative to GitHub Copilot
- Enterprise teams building their own AI coding infrastructure
Pros
- Completely free and open source: Apache 2.0, no usage restrictions
- Highest model freedom: any LLM, including local models
- Privacy protection: runs locally with Ollama, code stays on your machine
- Dual IDE support: VS Code + JetBrains
- MCP ecosystem: extensible to connect external tools
Pricing
Continue is completely free and open source (Apache 2.0). The only cost is LLM API fees, and you can achieve zero cost by using local models with Ollama. The enterprise version Continue for Teams provides team management features.
Summary
Continue is the 'most free AI coding assistant'—no cost, no model lock-in, no privacy leaks. When used with Ollama, it becomes a zero-cost Copilot alternative. Ideal for developers who value freedom and privacy.