Cursor - Full Review of the AI-Powered Code Editor Built for Developers
Updated on: 03.08.2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Platform |
Mac, Windows (via custom build), Linux (beta), VS Code fork |
|
AI Capabilities |
Code generation, debugging, doc creation, code search, test creation |
|
Context Awareness |
Full-project indexing, semantic code navigation, inline & side-panel agents |
|
Collaboration |
Pair programming, explain code, edit together (AI + user) |
|
Integrations |
GitHub, local repos, Copilot-compatible, GPT-4, Claude, custom models |
|
Customization |
Supports prompts, personal agent memory, config settings |
|
Pricing |
Free plan available, Pro: $20/month, Team: Custom pricing |
|
Use Cases |
Pair programming, bug fixing, feature prototyping, documentation, testing |
Introduction
Cursor is one of the newest entries into the AI-assisted coding space, positioning itself as more than just a Copilot alternative. Built as a fork of VS Code but optimized for AI, Cursor embeds powerful LLM features directly into your IDE. It aims to help developers code faster, understand complex projects quicker, and get unstuck without toggling between browser tabs and documentation.
Unlike standalone code generators or browser-based assistants, Cursor integrates with your local development environment and uses real-time indexing of your entire codebase. The result is a fluid coding experience where the AI understands not just your current file, but your whole project structure.
Cursor isn’t just about autocompletion. It’s about smarter debugging, better test generation, and faster understanding of new or legacy code.
Quick Recap
- Built on top of VS Code, with AI deeply integrated into the IDE
- Understands full-project context thanks to local indexing
- Compatible with GPT-4, Claude, and custom models
- Fast inline completions and doc generation
- Bug fixing, code explanation, and test writing tools
- Free version available, with Pro plan at $20/month
🎯 Best For: Full-stack developers, engineering teams, indie devs, and anyone working in large or complex codebases
⚠️ Avoid If: You prefer browser-based coding, or you’re restricted to a locked-down environment without Git or terminal access
How Cursor AI Works
Cursor’s magic lies in its ability to understand your codebase deeply. It indexes your files locally, meaning it can parse your entire project structure — functions, files, modules, and comments — and make intelligent suggestions based on that context.
The sidebar assistant allows you to chat with the AI about specific code segments, ask questions like “what does this function do?”, or request changes like “convert this loop to a list comprehension.” The inline AI editing feature can rewrite selected code blocks or insert suggestions as you type.
Under the hood, Cursor connects with models like GPT-4 and Claude. You can configure which model powers your assistant depending on your plan and preference. The models respond faster thanks to context trimming and semantic prioritization.
💡Fun Fact: Cursor’s team previously worked on Replit, OpenAI, and Figma — bringing together deep AI and developer tooling experience.
Key Features
1. Understanding New Codebases
When onboarding to a new project, Cursor can help you map out the code structure, identify key files, and understand dependencies faster than manual exploration.
2. Instant Code Explanations
Need to know what a 50-line function does? Highlight it and ask Cursor to explain. You’ll get a readable, high-level summary almost instantly.
3. Bug Fixing
Cursor’s debugging feature can identify problems, suggest fixes, and even write unit tests to verify them. You can then edit or approve the changes with one click.
4. Code Generation
Write prompts like “build a Flask app with user authentication” and Cursor will scaffold your project with smart defaults.
5. AI Pair Programming
It acts as a second brain, offering suggestions, refactors, or better logic while you write. You can keep or discard suggestions instantly.
6. Docs and Testing
Need to generate docstrings or write pytest tests for a function? Cursor handles that too, with templates and context awareness.
💡Fun Fact: Cursor was one of the first tools to offer AI-powered test creation embedded directly in your IDE — no need for a separate tool.
Real-World Use Cases
🔍 Code-Aware Search
Search for functions, definitions, or keywords across your entire repo with AI filters. You can even search by what code “does” instead of exact strings.
✍️ Inline AI Editing
Highlight code and prompt changes like “optimize this”, “make it async”, or “add logging.” Cursor intelligently rewrites code while preserving style.
📚 AI Documentation Generator
Create docstrings and markdown docs automatically. Cursor follows your existing documentation patterns to stay consistent.
🧪 Unit Test Creation
With a click, generate tests tailored to the logic of your functions. It handles edge cases and returns easy-to-read tests.
🧠 Custom Model Integration
Choose from OpenAI, Anthropic, or self-hosted models. Teams can set default assistants, memory states, or system prompts per project.
🧩 Plugin Support & Shortcuts
Supports VS Code extensions, keyboard shortcuts, and workspaces. You get the power of VS Code with the brains of an LLM.
💡Fun Fact: Cursor’s founders raised over $20M in seed and Series A funding within their first year due to demand from dev teams.
Pricing & Plans (2025)
Cursor is currently available in three pricing tiers:
| Plan | Price | Features |
| Free | $0 | GPT-4 access, basic completions, limited indexing & chat |
| Pro | $20/month | Unlimited usage, Claude/GPT-4 options, project memory, fast completions |
| Team | Custom pricing | Admin tools, team memory, private LLMs, API access, usage analytics |
The Free plan is generous and suitable for light users or hobby projects. Pro unlocks advanced AI features, while Team enables enterprise-level collaboration and security.
Cursor vs Other Coding Tools
| Tool | Best Known For | Where Cursor Wins | Where Cursor Falls Short |
|---|---|---|---|
|
GitHub Copilot |
Fast inline completions, ecosystem backing |
Deeper context awareness, chat assistant, testing |
Lacks GitHub’s native ecosystem integration |
|
Replit Ghostwriter |
In-browser coding with AI |
Local dev environment, VS Code ecosystem |
Replit is simpler for beginners |
|
Windsurf |
Lightweight and fast completions |
Better test/documentation generation |
Windsurf has free tier and less resource-heavy |
|
Tabnine |
Local AI models and privacy focus |
Semantic search and multi-model options |
Tabnine has more robust local inference options |
✅ Pros
- Deep understanding of codebase through local indexing
- Compatible with multiple LLMs (GPT-4, Claude, etc.)
- Fast, intuitive inline completions and code edits
- Test generation and AI code reviews
- Chat assistant embedded in editor
- Works like VS Code with more brainpower
❌ Cons
- Limited Linux support (still in beta)
- Paid plans may not suit hobby devs or students
- Not as plug-and-play as browser-based tools
⭐ Cursor AI Ratings
| Category | Score |
| Ease of Use | ★★★★☆ |
| AI Capabilities | ★★★★★ |
| Integration Flexibility | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance & Speed | ★★★★★ |
| Code Understanding | ★★★★★ |
| Collaboration Features | ★★★★☆ |
| Value for Money | ★★★★☆ |
| Platform Support | ★★★★☆ |
Overall Rating: 4.6 / 5
Final Verdict: Should You Use Cursor AI?
Cursor is a powerhouse tool for developers who want to go beyond simple autocomplete and unlock true context-aware programming. By combining an AI chat assistant, code search, test generation, and inline editing — all within a local VS Code-like environment – it becomes a serious productivity booster.
For professionals working on medium to large projects, or those who regularly inherit legacy codebases, Cursor can save hours of time each week. It’s not a toy – it’s a developer co-pilot with muscle.
If you’re still tabbing to Stack Overflow 20 times a day, Cursor might be your next upgrade.
💡 More Fun Facts
- Cursor’s Pro version supports GPT-4 Turbo and Claude 3 Opus out of the box.
- The devs ship updates almost weekly — their changelog is famously transparent.
- Cursor’s mascot is a cartoon spark named “Bit” — it pops up during onboarding!
Try Cursor AI FREE 👉
FAQ
Is Cursor free?
Yes. The Free plan offers basic usage, completions, and chat support with GPT-4.
What languages does Cursor support?
Virtually all major languages including Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, Go, TypeScript, and more.
Can I use my own LLM with Cursor?
Yes. Teams can integrate private APIs and self-hosted models.
Does Cursor replace GitHub Copilot?
It can, especially for devs who want more codebase awareness and debugging features.
Is there a browser version?
No. Cursor is a desktop-first IDE forked from VS Code.
Can teams use Cursor collaboratively?
Yes. The Team plan enables shared memory, agents, and admin controls
How is it different from plain VS Code with Copilot?
Cursor is purpose-built for AI, with native agent chat, test generation, semantic search, and context syncing.
Does Cursor work offline?
It requires a connection for AI completions, but indexing and editing are local.
Are there keyboard shortcuts?
Yes. Most VS Code shortcuts work, plus custom ones for AI features.
Is Cursor secure for enterprise use?
Yes. The Team plan includes usage analytics, memory controls, and private LLM access.