Mastra Code vs Aider: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mastra Code and Aider 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:
Mastra Code
A terminal-based AI coding agent for streamlined development workflows.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Terminal-based AI coding agent for development workflows.
- • Integrates with 70+ AI models for code reading, editing, and execution.
Aider
AI pair programming in your terminal with GPT-4
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Aider is an AI pair programming tool that runs in your terminal and edits code directly in your repo
- • It understands your codebase context and can make changes across multiple files in one conversation
| At a Glance |  Mastra Code |  Aider |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Terminal Tools | IDE & Code Editors |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Mastra Code | Aider |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 113 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsAI Coding | IDE & Code EditorsTerminal Tools |
How Mastra Code and Aider Compare
Mastra Code
A terminal-based AI coding agent for streamlined development workflows.
Free tier available
Aider
AI pair programming in your terminal with GPT-4
Paid · 82/100 score
Mastra Code is a terminal tools tool. Aider is in ide & code editors.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Mastra Code has a free tier. Aider is paid only.
Go with: Mastra Code
Want the highest-rated option?
Aider scores 82/100. Mastra Code is unrated.
Go with: Aider
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Aider
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Mastra Code is freemium. Aider is paid. Mastra Code lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Mastra Code is a terminal tools tool. Aider is in ide & code editors. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Aider
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Mastra Code
- Has a free tier
- More community upvotes (113)
- Better fit for terminal tools
The Bottom Line
Aider (82/100) is our pick. Mastra Code has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mastra Code or Aider better?
Aider scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Mastra Code is freemium and Aider is paid.
What are Mastra Code and Aider used for?
Mastra Code: A terminal-based AI coding agent for streamlined development workflows.. Aider: AI pair programming in your terminal with GPT-4.
What does Mastra Code cost vs Aider?
Mastra Code is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Aider is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.