10 Best AI Coding Assistants in 2025

We tested the top AI tools to find the best options for your needs.

By Alex ChenUpdated January 8, 2026Advertiser Disclosure
trophy

Quick Summary: The Winners

Best Overall
Cursor Logo

Cursor

AI-first code editor

Try Cursor
Best Value
GitHub Copilot Logo

GitHub Copilot

AI pair programmer

Try GitHub Copilot

Compare Top 2 Tools

ToolBest ForRatingStarting Price
1.Cursor logoCursor
Full-stack developers
star4.8
Free / $0Visit Site →
2.GitHub Copilot logoGitHub Copilot
Professional developers in teams
star4.5
Free / $10Visit Site →
#1

Cursor

Best OverallEnterprise Ready
4.8
starstarstarstarstar_half
Editor's Choice

AI-first code editor

Pros
check_circleMultiple AI models included (GPT-4, Claude, proprietary models) vs single model in competitors
check_circleTrue AI-first architecture instead of plugins bolted onto traditional editors
check_circleAgent capabilities can handle complex tasks across browsers and mobile development
check_circleFast iteration cycle with major updates every few months (1.0 to 2.0 in 5 months)
check_circleTeam rules and collaborative features for enterprise development workflows
Cons
cancelOccasional update issues can cause code reversion - backup your work
cancelAI can generate buggy code that requires careful review before deployment
cancelComplex pricing model with 'fast requests' limits on Pro tier
Cursor Interface Preview
Starting at:Free / $0/mo
#2

GitHub Copilot

Best ValueSocial Media
4.5
starstarstarstarstar_half

AI pair programmer

Pros
check_circleAutonomous agent capabilities - handles full refactoring and test coverage improvements, not just suggestions
check_circleMassive adoption proves reliability - 20 million users and 80% of new devs use it in week one
check_circleDeep GitHub integration - works natively with your existing workflow and repositories
check_circleMulti-language support across popular programming languages with consistent quality
check_circleRecently upgraded CLI (Oct 2025) is faster and more intuitive than previous versions
Cons
cancelNo free tier for most users - only available to students, teachers, and popular open-source maintainers
cancelEnterprise pricing not publicly disclosed, making budget planning difficult for larger teams
cancelHeavily tied to Microsoft ecosystem - less flexible if you're using competing tools
GitHub Copilot Interface Preview

How We Tested

We evaluated each tool based on features, pricing, ease of use, and real user reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best AI tools for professionals?expand_more
Based on our testing, the top tools are GitHub Copilot, Cursor.