GitHub Copilot vs Cline: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GitHub Copilot and Cline comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GitHub Copilot
AI pair programmer that suggests code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • AI pair programmer by GitHub
- • Code suggestions in your editor
Cline
Open-source AI coding agent for VS Code
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Free open-source autonomous AI coding agent for VS Code (pay only for AI API)
- • Creates/edits files, runs terminal commands, and browses with user permission
| At a Glance |  GitHub Copilot |  Cline |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | 89/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | GitHub Copilot | Cline |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 89 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsAI Coding | IDE & Code EditorsAI Coding |
How GitHub Copilot and Cline Compare
GitHub Copilot
AI pair programmer that suggests code
Paid · 89/100 score
Cline
Open-source AI coding agent for VS Code
Free tier available · 81/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Cline has a free tier. GitHub Copilot is paid only.
Go with: Cline
Want the highest-rated option?
GitHub Copilot: 89/100. Cline: 81/100.
Go with: GitHub Copilot
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GitHub Copilot
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GitHub Copilot is paid. Cline is freemium. Cline lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are ide & code editors tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
GitHub Copilot scores higher: 89/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
GitHub Copilot
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 81
- Our pick for this comparison
Cline
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
GitHub Copilot (89/100) is our pick. Cline has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GitHub Copilot or Cline better?
GitHub Copilot scores 89/100 in our evaluation. GitHub Copilot is paid and Cline is freemium.
What are GitHub Copilot and Cline used for?
GitHub Copilot: AI pair programmer that suggests code. Cline: Open-source AI coding agent for VS Code.
What does GitHub Copilot cost vs Cline?
GitHub Copilot is a paid tool. Cline is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.