Aider
Open-source command-line AI coding assistant that pairs with a local git repository and edits files directly from the terminal.
Overview
Aider is an open-source CLI tool that sits in your terminal and lets you pair-program with a language model against a local git repository. You describe a task, Aider reads relevant files, makes the edits and commits the changes automatically. It supports dozens of models through various API providers and can work with locally running models. Because it is a command-line tool it plugs into any editor or IDE without a plugin.
Key features
- Edits files and commits to git automatically
- Support for many model providers and local models
- Repository map for large codebase context
- Works in any terminal without an editor plugin
- Voice input support
Pricing
- Pricing model
- Open source
- Monthly
- Open source, free to self-host
- Yearly
- Not on record
- Free plan
- Yes
- Free trial
- Not on record
- Last verified
- Checked October 4, 2026
Pros
- Free to use; only model API costs apply
- Automatic git commits keep a clear record of AI changes
- Works with local models for offline or private use
Cons
- Command-line only with no GUI or editor integration
- Requires familiarity with git and API key management
Who should use it
- Developers who live in the terminal and want an agent that works with git
- Users who want to run local models to keep code off external servers
- Scripting and automating coding tasks in CI or shell pipelines
Advanced · Individuals, Small teams
Who shouldn't
- Developers who prefer a visual editor or GUI workflow
- Beginners unfamiliar with the command line or git
Facts
- Category
- AI coding
- Platforms
- Command line, macOS, Windows, Linux
- Integrations
- GitHub, Anthropic API, OpenAI API, Ollama
- API
- Not on record
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Team size
- Individuals, Small teams
- Data and privacy
- Aider is open-source and sends code only to your configured API provider; Aider itself stores nothing.
Alternatives
- Claude CodeAI coding
Terminal-based agentic coding tool from Anthropic that reads a codebase, edits files and runs commands to complete tasks end to end.
Usage-based pricing - ClineAI coding
Open-source VS Code extension that gives Claude, GPT-4 and other models agentic access to your files, terminal and browser.
Open source, free to self-host - CursorAI coding
AI-first code editor built on VS Code that autocompletes, answers questions and applies multi-file changes from a single instruction.
From $20/month
Frequently asked questions
How much does Aider cost?
Open source, free to self-host. Checked October 4, 2026.
Does Aider have a free plan?
Yes. Aider is free to use.
Who is Aider best for?
Developers who live in the terminal and want an agent that works with git; Users who want to run local models to keep code off external servers; Scripting and automating coding tasks in CI or shell pipelines.
Which platforms does Aider run on?
Command line, macOS, Windows, Linux.
Does Aider have an API?
Our data does not list a public API for Aider.
What are the alternatives to Aider?
Tools often weighed against Aider include Claude Code, Cline, Cursor.