Overview
Roo Code is an open-source AI coding assistant plugin for VS Code (formerly Roo Cline). It is completely free and open-source, supporting users to bring their own API keys to connect to any large model. Known as "the open-source alternative to Cursor," its GitHub star count continues to rise, making it the top choice for self-deployment and cost-conscious users.
Core highlights: Built-in preset modes (Code, Architect, Ask) with support for custom modes; compatible with all mainstream APIs including OpenRouter, Anthropic, Google Gemini, DeepSeek, SiliconFlow, etc.; supports MCP (Model Context Protocol) for extending external tools; provides complete Agent capabilities for file editing, command execution, and browser automation.
Note: This project was archived by its owner on May 15, 2026. The repository is now read-only and no longer actively developed.
Key Features
- Completely Free and Open Source: One-click install from the VS Code marketplace; code is fully open-source and auditable
- Switch Models Freely: Supports all mainstream models including OpenRouter, Anthropic, DeepSeek, Gemini, SiliconFlow, etc.
- Multi-Mode Presets: Built-in modes like Code, Architect, Ask, with support for custom modes
- Complete Agent Capabilities: File creation and editing, command execution, build testing, browser automation
- MCP Protocol Support: Extend external tools via Model Context Protocol with a rich ecosystem
- Adaptive Autonomous Mode: Flexible switching between manual, automatic, and hybrid modes for controlled execution boundaries
Use Cases
- Developers who want Cursor's capabilities but don't want to pay for a subscription
- Enterprise users needing open-source and auditable AI tools
- Users wanting to pair with cheap APIs like DeepSeek / SiliconFlow
- Combinations of locally deployed large models with AI coding assistants
- Users accustomed to the VS Code ecosystem and unwilling to switch IDEs
Pros
- Completely free and open-source under Apache 2.0 license
- Works within VS Code, no need to switch IDEs
- Free switching between multiple models for lowest cost
- Good plugin ecosystem with strong MCP extensibility
- Supports local large model deployment
- Active community with rapid iteration
Pricing
The plugin itself is completely free. Usage cost depends on the chosen API: DeepSeek V4-Pro approximately $0.06 per million tokens (cache hits reduce cost by 90%), Claude Sonnet 4.7 approximately $3 per million input tokens. Heavy usage typically costs $5-30 per month.
Summary
Roo Code is the most mature choice among "open-source alternatives to Cursor." If you are a heavy VS Code user, want to save on subscription fees, or need an enterprise-grade auditable AI coding tool, Roo Code is currently the best option. Paired with DeepSeek, monthly costs can even be below $5, offering unbeatable value. However, note that this project was archived on May 15, 2026, and is no longer actively developed. Assess long-term maintenance risks before use.
Version History
- Roo Code 3.x (2026): Independent evolution after forking from Cline: Multi-Mode (Code/Architect/Ask/Debug) + MCP Tool Marketplace + Memory Bank for long-term context
- Roo Code Early Versions (2024-2025): Forked from Roo Cline as an independent branch; VS Code plugin downloads ranked among top three in AI coding category