Cursor
Launched 2023, continually updated
Cursor bills itself as “the best way to code with AI.” It’s a desktop IDE (macOS, Windows, Linux) built on VS Code but optimized around AI-first workflows: chat embedded in the editor, inline refactors, autop-run commands, and deep agent capabilities. (cursor.com)
Why it stands out
- Full IDE, not a plugin. Instead of bolting AI onto an existing editor, Cursor ships its own VS Code fork so the agent can access files, run commands, and apply diffs seamlessly.
- Multiple top-tier models. Cursor lets you pick from Claude Sonnet 4.5, GPT-4.1, GPT-4o, Gemini 2.5 Pro, etc., and route tasks through whichever model works best.
- Autocomplete + chat + agents. You get AI-assisted completion, side-by-side chats referencing your repo, and an “Agent” mode that can execute autop-run flows (tests, commands, file edits).
- Enterprise-ready. SOC 2 certified, SSO, on-prem options, fine-grained data controls, and dedicated enterprise plans.
Usage patterns
- Inline fixes. Highlight code, invoke Cursor to explain or rewrite, then accept a diff.
- Autop-run tasks. Ask it to “add dark mode support” and it’ll plan steps, edit files, run tests, and show results.
- Model multiplexer. Switch models mid-conversation (e.g., Claude for reasoning, GPT-4o for UI copy) without leaving the IDE.
Getting started
- Download from cursor.com/download (macOS, Windows, Linux).
- Sign in with email; pro plans unlock higher rate limits and enterprise features.
- Configure model slots under Settings → AI. You can bring your own keys or use Cursor’s hosted ones depending on plan.
- For teams, reach out via their enterprise/contact pages for SOC 2 docs and deployment details.