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Best AI Tools for Code Generation

Need AI to write code for you? Compare the best code generation tools based on your needs.

The Problem

You need to generate code faster, whether it's boilerplate, entire functions, or learning new frameworks.

Tools Ranked by Usefulness

We rank these tools based on how well they solve this specific problem, not popularity or price.

#1

GitHub Copilot

Most mature and accurate for autocomplete

✅ Best For:

  • Autocompleting code as you type
  • Boilerplate generation
  • Learning new frameworks
  • Writing tests

⚠️ Not Ideal For:

  • Complete beginners
  • Novel algorithms
  • Security-critical code

⚖️ Tradeoffs:

Requires subscription ($10/mo). Code sent to OpenAI. Works best after learning to trust suggestions.

Pricing: $10/mo
Learning Curve: Easy
#2

Cursor

Best for generating entire features

✅ Best For:

  • Multi-file changes
  • Large refactoring
  • Understanding codebases
  • Natural language edits

⚠️ Not Ideal For:

  • JetBrains users
  • Offline development
  • Minimal AI preference

⚖️ Tradeoffs:

Requires switching editors. More expensive ($20/mo). Needs internet connection.

Pricing: $20/mo
Learning Curve: Moderate
#3

ChatGPT

Best for explaining and learning

✅ Best For:

  • Understanding code
  • Algorithm explanations
  • Debugging help
  • Learning concepts

⚠️ Not Ideal For:

  • Real-time autocomplete
  • Large codebases
  • Production code without review

⚖️ Tradeoffs:

Not integrated into IDE. Requires copy-paste. Can hallucinate. Free tier available.

Pricing: Free / $20/mo
Learning Curve: Easy

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