About Kilo Code
Kilo Code is an open-source AI coding agent that integrates with Visual Studio Code and JetBrains, making it a compelling option for developers looking to enhance their coding experience. What sets Kilo Code apart is its ability to support over 500 models from big names like Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google. This means you can select the model that best fits your specific requirements, offering a tailored experience that many other coding assistants lack. The tool is designed for flexibility, allowing developers to run multiple agents simultaneously, which can significantly boost productivity when tackling complex coding tasks. Additionally, Kilo Code incorporates voice command functionality, which is a neat touch for those who prefer hands-free coding. However, the real cherry on top is its session synchronisation across various devices and environments, making it a versatile choice for modern developers who work across different platforms.
When it comes to pricing, Kilo Code adopts a pay-as-you-go model that feels refreshingly transparent. Users only pay for what they consume from the model providers with zero markup, which is a rare find in the crowded AI coding assistant market. For those just dipping their toes in, Kilo Code offers a top-up deal that lets you spend $10 to get $30 worth of credits. Plus, if you're part of a team, you can use it for free until Q1 2026, after which it will cost $20 per user per month. This pricing structure is quite appealing for freelancers or smaller teams who want to keep costs down.
However, Kilo Code isn't without its flaws. Firstly, while the sheer number of models is impressive, it can also be overwhelming. For novice developers, sifting through 500 options to find the right model can feel daunting. Additionally, while the voice command feature is a fun addition, it’s not perfect and can sometimes misinterpret commands, which is a hassle when you’re deep in coding flow.
Kilo Code shines when it comes to flexibility and pricing, but it may not be the best fit for every developer. Those who thrive in structured environments with clear guidance might find the multitude of options a bit much. On the other hand, if you’re the sort of developer who enjoys experimenting and customising their tools, Kilo Code could be a match made in heaven. Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to integrate AI into their coding workflow, especially if you’re budget-conscious and appreciate open-source solutions.
Our Review
Verified 11 May 2026Reviewed by Delv Editorial, Delv Team
I recently spent some time testing Kilo Code, and I have to say, it’s a refreshing addition to the world of coding assistants. As someone who’s often juggling multiple coding projects, the idea of an open-source AI coding agent that works with my go-to IDEs like Visual Studio Code and JetBrains had me intrigued. What immediately struck me was the sheer flexibility offered by Kilo Code. With over 500 models at my disposal from names like OpenAI and Google, I felt like a kid in a candy store. It was empowering to switch between models depending on my project's needs, whether I was debugging a stubborn error or looking for optimisation suggestions.
One of the standout features for me was the ability to run multiple agents simultaneously. There were a couple of times when I was knee-deep in a complex coding task that required different approaches, and being able to tap into multiple models at once truly sped up my workflow. Plus, the voice command functionality is a nifty addition. I tried it out during a late-night coding session, and while it was fun to talk to my code, I did encounter a couple of hiccups where it misheard my commands. Still, it’s a feature that could be handy for those who prefer a hands-free approach.
Now, let’s talk about pricing. Kilo Code adopts a pay-as-you-go model that genuinely feels fair. I topped up with $10 and got $30 worth of credits, which felt like a steal. For freelance developers or small teams, this pricing structure is a major plus. You’re not locked into a subscription model, and you only pay for what you use. And with free access for teams until Q1 2026, it’s hard not to see the appeal for collaborative projects.
On the downside, the plethora of model options could be overwhelming for less experienced developers. I found myself second-guessing which model to choose several times, and a bit more guidance in the documentation would have been appreciated. Additionally, while the session synchronisation feature is fantastic, I did notice that the interface could feel a bit cluttered at times, which might not sit well with those used to more polished proprietary tools.
In comparison to its main competitor, GitHub Copilot, Kilo Code offers a more flexible and budget-friendly option. While Copilot is great for contextual suggestions based on your GitHub activity, Kilo Code’s ability to choose from a variety of models gives it a unique edge. However, if you’re looking for a more straightforward experience, Copilot might be your best bet.
Overall, I think Kilo Code is a solid choice for developers looking to bring AI into their coding processes without the financial burden of traditional subscriptions. It's perfect for those who enjoy customisation and don’t mind navigating a bit of complexity. If you’re a more novice coder who prefers a guided experience, you might want to explore other options first. But for anyone ready to dive into the world of open-source coding assistants, Kilo Code is definitely worth considering.
Getting started with Kilo Code
After this guide, you’ll be able to set up Kilo Code in Visual Studio Code or JetBrains, and use it to enhance your coding with AI assistance tailored to your needs.
Step 1: Sign up and set up
Step 2: Your first coding task
Step 3: Get better results
Pro tip
Familiarise yourself with keyboard shortcuts for your IDE and Kilo Code. This can significantly speed up your workflow as you won't need to rely on the mouse to navigate through menus.
Common mistake to avoid
Avoid vague comments or instructions. If your comment is unclear, Kilo Code may generate irrelevant or incorrect code. Always be as specific as possible to get the best results.
The Verdict
Kilo Code is a strong recommendation for developers craving flexibility and transparency in their coding workflows. If you're a freelance developer or part of a small team wanting to experiment with AI without the hefty price tag, this tool is right up your alley. However, if you're a novice looking for a simpler, more guided experience, you might want to look elsewhere until you're ready to tackle the complexities of multiple AI models.
Best For
- Freelance developers seeking a budget-friendly coding assistant.
- Small teams looking for a collaborative tool that won’t cost them until 2026.
- Experienced developers who enjoy customising their workflows with different AI models.
- Tech enthusiasts who appreciate open-source solutions and community-driven tools.
- Mobile developers needing seamless session synchronisation across devices.
- Students exploring different AI approaches in coding.
At a Glance
Kilo Code is an open-source AI coding assistant that integrates with popular IDEs like VS Code and JetBrains, offering a pay-as-you-go pricing model with zero markup on model costs. With support for over 500 AI models, it provides flexibility and customisation, making it an excellent fit for developers who want to enhance their coding experience without breaking the bank.
Strengths
- +The open-source nature of Kilo Code allows for community-driven improvements and transparency, which is a breath of fresh air in an industry often dominated by proprietary tools.
- +With over 500 model options from top providers, you have the freedom to choose the best model for your coding tasks, ensuring you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all solution.
- +The pay-as-you-go pricing model is genuinely advantageous, enabling users to pay only for what they use, which is particularly beneficial for freelancers and small teams with tight budgets.
- +Voice command functionality adds an interesting layer of convenience, allowing developers to code hands-free, which can be a time-saver during intense coding sessions.
- +Session synchronization across devices means you can pick up where you left off, whether you’re on your desktop, laptop, or even mobile, which is fantastic for developers on the go.
- +Running multiple agents simultaneously can significantly enhance productivity when dealing with complex coding tasks, allowing for more efficient problem-solving.
- +The introductory free access for teams until Q1 2026 is a huge incentive for collaborative projects, making it easier for teams to adopt the tool without immediate costs.
Limitations
- -The overwhelming number of model options can be a double-edged sword; it could lead to decision paralysis for less experienced developers who might struggle to identify the right model for their tasks.
- -The voice command feature, while a novel addition, is not foolproof and can lead to misinterpretations, which can disrupt your coding flow and lead to frustration.
- -As an open-source tool, Kilo Code may lack the polished user experience found in some proprietary alternatives, which could deter developers looking for a more streamlined interface.
- -The requirement to top up credits could be annoying for users who prefer not to manage their spending on a pay-as-you-go basis, especially if they forget to add credits before running out.
- -Documentation can sometimes be sparse, meaning that developers might not find answers to specific queries easily, which could slow down their workflow.
- -For teams that require extensive support or training, Kilo Code may not offer the same level of resources as larger, established competitors.
Use Cases
- -Freelance developers who need a flexible coding assistant that won’t drain their wallet with monthly fees, allowing them to pay only for what they use.
- -Small teams collaborating on projects who can take advantage of the free access until 2026, providing a cost-effective way to integrate AI into their workflows.
- -Developers working on complex projects that require multiple AI models to tackle different coding challenges simultaneously, enhancing their problem-solving capabilities.
- -Tech enthusiasts who love tinkering and customising their tools will find Kilo Code’s open-source nature a playground for experimentation.
- -Mobile developers who want to switch between coding on their desktop and mobile devices seamlessly, thanks to the session synchronisation feature.
- -Students learning to code might benefit from the diverse model options available, allowing them to explore different AI approaches to coding.
- -Developers who prefer hands-free coding can use the voice command functionality to keep their hands free for typing and debugging.
