Windsurf

An agentic AI editor where Cascade plans and executes multi-step coding tasks.

What is Windsurf?

Windsurf (formerly Codeium) is an AI-native code editor built around Cascade, an agent that understands your whole repository and can plan, edit, run, and iterate on multi-step coding tasks. Rather than bolting AI onto a plugin, Windsurf ships as a full VS Code-compatible editor where the agent tracks your recent actions and keeps context as you work, plus plugins that bring its autocomplete to JetBrains and other IDEs. It includes fast tab completions, inline commands, and previews that let you review every change the agent proposes before accepting. A capable free tier makes it one of the easiest agentic editors to try.

Key Features

Cascade agent for multi-file, multi-step coding tasks

Repository-wide context awareness and action tracking

Fast tab autocomplete and inline AI commands

VS Code-compatible editor plus JetBrains plugins

Preview and review every AI change before accepting

Use Cases

Build features end-to-end by describing them to the Cascade agent
Refactor across many files with the agent keeping context
Replace stock autocomplete with faster AI completions
Prototype apps quickly with agent-driven scaffolding

How to Use Windsurf

1Download the Windsurf editor for macOS, Windows, or Linux
2Import your VS Code settings and extensions
3Open Cascade, describe the task, and review the proposed edits
4Accept, refine, or roll back changes from the diff view

Best For

Developers who want an agent-first editorCursor users comparing alternativesIndividuals on a budget (free tier)

FAQ

Is Windsurf free?

Yes — there is a free tier with monthly prompt credits for Cascade plus unlimited fast autocomplete. The Pro plan starts at about $15/month with more agent credits.

What is Cascade in Windsurf?

Cascade is Windsurf's built-in agent. It understands your repository, plans multi-step tasks, edits multiple files, runs commands, and shows you diffs to review before anything is final.

How is Windsurf different from Cursor?

Both are VS Code-style AI editors. Windsurf leans harder into automated agent flows and a cleaner beginner experience, while Cursor exposes more manual control and is more widely adopted among professionals.

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