Overview
Continue is an open-source AI coding assistant available as a VS Code and JetBrains plugin. Its core selling point is that it is not tied to any model—you can connect Claude, GPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, or even use local models via Ollama for zero-cost AI programming.
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: Connect Claude, GPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, or local models via Ollama, not tied to any vendor
- Code Completion: Context-aware intelligent code completion, supports 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 full JetBrains suite
- Fully Free and Open Source: Apache 2.0 license, completely transparent
Use Cases
- Developers who want to protect privacy using local models
- Individual developers and students seeking zero-cost AI programming
- Technical users who need to flexibly switch between different LLMs
- Free open-source alternative to GitHub Copilot
- Enterprise teams building their own AI programming 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 via Ollama, code never leaves
- 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 the LLM API fee, and you can achieve zero cost by using local models via 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. Used with Ollama, it is a zero-cost Copilot alternative. Suitable for developers who value freedom and privacy.