Kilo Code

Score: 81/100 β“˜ How we score
βœ“ Verified 2026-02

Open-source AI coding agent that works with any model, featuring multi-mode operation (Architect, Coder, Debugger), Memory Bank for persistent project context, and transparent pay-as-you-go pricing.

πŸš€ See Kilo Code in Action

Watch Kilo Code switch between Architect, Coder, and Debugger modes to complete the task.

πŸ’‘ This is a simulated example demonstrating typical Kilo Code capabilities. No actual LLM call is made.

Prompt:
Design and implement a caching layer for our API endpoints with Redis.

Key Features

Multi-mode operation: Architect, Coder, Debugger, plus custom modes
Memory Bank for persistent project knowledge across sessions
500+ AI model support including Claude, GPT, Gemini, and local models
Automatic error detection and test suite recovery
Parallel agent execution for multiple simultaneous tasks
Open-source under Apache 2.0 license
Transparent pricing matching provider rates exactly

Best For

Model FlexibilityOpen Source DevelopmentMulti-Mode WorkflowsCost-Conscious TeamsVS Code & JetBrains Users

Key Specifications

Core CompetencyModel Flexibility, Open Source Development, Multi-Mode Workflows, Cost-Conscious Teams, VS Code & JetBrains Users
AI ArchitectureModel-agnostic: Supports 500+ models including Gemini 3 Pro, Claude 4.5 Sonnet & Opus, GPT-5, and local models via Ollama/LM Studio.
Context WindowDepends on selected model. Memory Bank provides persistent context across sessions.
DeploymentVS Code extension, JetBrains plugin, and CLI. Fully open-source for self-hosting.
Offline SupportSupports local models via Ollama for fully offline operation.
IDE IntegrationVS Code, all VS Code-based IDEs, JetBrains IDEs, and CLI
Company Maturity1 years
Pricing ModelFreemium - Basic features

πŸ“Š Performance Metrics & Comparisons

Score Breakdown

Visual breakdown of this tool's performance across six key evaluation criteria

Top 5 Tools Comparison

See how Kilo Code ranks against the top AI coding assistants in our directory

Common Use Cases

Detailed Analysis

βœ“ Strengths

  • Multi-model AI architecture
    Supports both Claude and OpenAI models for optimal performance across different tasks

βœ— Limitations

Expert Analysis

Kilo Code stands out with its model-vendor neutral approachβ€”use any AI provider without lock-in. The Memory Bank feature addresses a key pain point: persistent project context that survives across sessions. Founded by GitLab co-founder Sid Sijbrandij and backed by $8M seed funding, Kilo positions itself as a cost-effective Cursor alternative with transparent pricing. With 750K+ users and 6.1 trillion tokens/month processed, it's gaining significant traction among developers who value flexibility and open-source ethos.

Verdict

Kilo Code offers solid AI development capabilities with specific technical strengths. Its multi-model architecture leveraging both Anthropic and OpenAI technologies provides exceptional versatility. Unique offline capabilities make it suitable for security-conscious enterprise environments. Best suited for developers requiring advanced AI assistance in their primary development workflow.

Who is This For?

**Experienced developers** working in specialized domains or with specific technical requirements.

Company Background

Status: Private (Kilo-Org)

Founded: 2025

Backing: $8 million seed funding (late 2025)

Frequently Asked Questions

What AI model does Kilo Code use?

Model-agnostic: Supports 500+ models including Gemini 3 Pro, Claude 4.5 Sonnet & Opus, GPT-5, and local models via Ollama/LM Studio.

What IDEs does Kilo Code support?

Kilo Code supports VS Code, all VS Code-based IDEs, JetBrains IDEs, and CLI.

Does Kilo Code work offline?

Yes, Kilo Code supports offline mode. Supports local models via Ollama for fully offline operation.

How does Kilo Code compare to Claude Code?

Kilo Code scores 81/100 versus Claude Code's 98/100. Kilo Code excels at Model Flexibility and Open Source Development, while Claude Code is known for Agentic Coding and Complex Refactoring.

What is Kilo Code best for?

Kilo Code is best suited for Model Flexibility, Open Source Development, Multi-Mode Workflows, Cost-Conscious Teams, VS Code & JetBrains Users. Multi-stage development workflows using Architect mode for planning, Coder mode for implementation,

What is Kilo Code's context window size?

Depends on selected model. Memory Bank provides persistent context across sessions.

Sources

Primary references: blog, docs, release notes, API, and status pages.

User Reviews & Ratings

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