Editorial note: AI coding plans, quotas, model access, and product features change frequently. Verify current details directly before subscribing or deploying.
Overview
Aider is an open-source AI pair-programming tool that runs in the terminal, understands code repositories, edits files, works with Git, and supports many hosted and local model providers.
Best for
Developers who prefer terminal workflows, Git-based changes, model flexibility, and direct control over AI-assisted coding
Key features
- Repository-aware editing
- Git integration
- Multi-file changes
- Model-provider flexibility
- Voice and lint workflows
- Terminal-first operation
Pricing
Aider itself is open source. Users pay any model-provider, local-compute, or related service costs separately. Verify supported models and provider pricing directly.
Check current official pricing
Pros
- Open source
- Strong Git workflow
- Supports many models
- Lightweight terminal experience
Cons and cautions
- Terminal interface may deter beginners
- Provider costs are separate
- Requires careful review
- Large repositories need model context planning
Frequently asked questions
Is Aider free?
Aider is open source, while the language models it connects to may have separate costs.
Does Aider work with Git?
Yes. Git-aware editing and commits are central to its workflow.
Can Aider use local models?
It supports many providers and compatible local-model workflows.
Before you choose
- Verify current pricing and model limits
- Review repository privacy and data-retention policies
- Test the tool on a noncritical project first
- Review every generated change and terminal action
- Compare at least one alternative
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