Best AI code editors 2025: Top development tools
- How AI is revolutionizing code writing and editing in 2025.
- The shift from simple autocomplete to full-project agentic workflows.
- Which AI editor best fits your development style and tech stack.
AI coding tools now come with a vibe. Whether you’re debugging alone or scanning a 100K‑line repo, there’s a AI editor or extension that will help you through the process. This top list breaks down their latest features, ideal workflows, and what type of developer they actually serve.
Cursor
Cursor is an AI-native editor built on a lean version of VS Code. Unlike a simple autocomplete plugin, it runs multiple large language models (LLMs) including GPT-4.1, Claude 3.7 Sonnet, Gemini 2.5, and Grok. It supports full-project refactors, debugging, and natural language prompts for advanced code edits.
Key features
- Unified request-based pricing model
- “Max Mode” with premium LLMs
- Background agent for parallel tasks
- Contextual file-level AI
- Multi-root workspace and exportable chat threads
- Deep multi-LLM integration
- Supports background agents and full-project edits
- Powerful contextual tools for real projects
- Subscription required for full functionality
- Learning curve for AI-first workflows
Great for developers aiming to work with an AI tool that supports complete workflows
Windsurf
Previously known as Codeium, Windsurf focuses on keeping devs in “flow state.” It blends traditional IDE features with AI agents that can execute terminal commands, refactor code, and even manage UI assets like images.
Key features
- SWE-1 models for full-stack engineering tasks
- Cascade Turbo Mode for real-time command execution
- Drag-and-drop image support in terminals
- Agentic workflows that automate coding tasks
- Strong terminal integration
- Supports a wide stack of languages
- Subscription needed for premium capabilities
- Community and plugin ecosystem still growing
Great for developers who want an IDE that feels responsive and automated, especially for scripting, systems, or rapid UI dev.
GitHub Copilot
Copilot remains the most widely used AI coding assistant, thanks to its deep GitHub integration. In 2025, it leveled up with Anthropic’s AI and introduced autonomous agents that can fix bugs and improve documentation in-place.
Key features
- AI agent for autonomous coding tasks
- Anthropic AI model support (via Microsoft)
- Secure sandboxed environments for testing changes
- Tight GitHub integration
- Smart real-time suggestions
- Multi-language support
- Some outputs may require close validation
- Feature set varies by subscription tier
A safe pick for devs already working in GitHub who want AI help fixing bugs, writing tests, or navigating new code.
Trae
Built by ByteDance, Trae offers AI Q&A, autocompletion, and model switching for free. It supports VS Code plug-ins and leverages DeepSeek R1 and Claude 3.7. Recently, it added Model Context Protocol (MCP) for smarter AI configuration.
Key features
- MCP support and “.rules” configuration files
- In-editor AI model switching
- Online search integration for fast code answers
- Free access to high-end models
- VS Code plug-in compatibility
- Web dev–oriented UX and integrations
- Some beta features may be unreliable
- Smaller user base and ecosystem
Ideal if you’re doing front-end or interactive web work and want smart, low-cost tools without leaving your current setup.
Sourcegraph Cody
Cody is not a code editor, but an AI layer on top of your existing IDE (VS Code, JetBrains, etc.). It’s built for understanding entire codebases, surfacing patterns, and assisting with reviews or documentation.
Key features
- Improved auto-edit functions and UI polish
- Enhanced multi-file chat navigation
- Better integration with OpenAI and Google models
- Full-project awareness and summaries
- Integrates with multiple major LLMs
- Boosts team-wide understanding of legacy code
- Some setup required for optimal use
- Enterprise features gated behind paywall
Great for large teams or devs who regularly explore old, tangled codebases and need instant, reliable explanations.
Conclusion
The AI coding assistant landscape in 2025 offers something for every developer, whether you’re deep in full-stack projects or need quick code suggestions. Each tool we’ve covered brings unique strengths to the table, from Cursor’s multi-LLM approach to GitHub Copilot’s seamless IDE integration.
For me, Windsurf has become my day-to-day AI code editor of choice. Its agentic workflows and terminal integration keep me in the zone, especially when juggling multiple tasks. The real test? Try them out, see what clicks with your workflow, and let the AI handle the grunt work while you focus on building something great.