Best VS Code Alternative
VS Code alternatives are usually about wanting AI built in, faster performance, or a workspace layer for running agents.
What to look for in a VS Code alternative
- Native (non-Electron) speed
- Built-in AI editor experience
- Multi-agent orchestration
Recommended options
Agentastic
Our pickNative macOS workspace for running 30+ AI coding agents in parallel git worktrees. Built-in editor, browser, diff viewer, and code review.
Zed
Fast Rust-native editor with real-time collaboration and an optional AI assistant. Strong fit if you want a snappy editor without an Electron fork.
Cursor
AI-first VS Code fork with agent mode, tab completion, and BugBot review. Mature pick if you want AI inside the editor.
Windsurf
AI VS Code fork built around Cascade and Supercomplete. Different feel from Cursor, similar audience.
How to switch from VS Code cleanly
Cursor and Windsurf are forks — your VS Code config moves over directly. Zed needs a one-time settings convert. Agentastic complements any of them.
Common questions
Should I move off VS Code?
Not necessarily. Keep VS Code as your editor and use Agentastic for the agent layer.