Mastra Code vs Codex CLI: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mastra Code and Codex CLI 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
- • Terminal-based AI coding agent for development workflows.
- • Integrates with 70+ AI models for code reading, editing, and execution.
Codex CLI
OpenAI official terminal coding agent
Best for you if:
- • OpenAI Codex in the terminal
- • Natural language to code commands
| At a Glance |  Mastra Code |  Codex CLI |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Terminal Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Mastra Code | Codex CLI |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 113 | 0 |
| Categories | Terminal ToolsAI Coding | Terminal ToolsAI Coding |
How Mastra Code and Codex CLI Compare
Mastra Code
A terminal-based AI coding agent for streamlined development workflows.
Free tier available
Codex CLI
OpenAI official terminal coding agent
Paid
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Mastra Code has a free tier. Codex CLI is paid only.
Go with: Mastra Code
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Mastra Code
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Mastra Code
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Mastra Code is freemium. Codex CLI is paid. Mastra Code lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are terminal tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Mastra Code
- More community upvotes (113)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Codex CLI
The Bottom Line
Mastra Code is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mastra Code or Codex CLI better?
Mastra Code scores high/100 in our evaluation. Mastra Code is freemium and Codex CLI is paid.
What are Mastra Code and Codex CLI used for?
Mastra Code: A terminal-based AI coding agent for streamlined development workflows.. Codex CLI: OpenAI official terminal coding agent.
What does Mastra Code cost vs Codex CLI?
Mastra Code is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Codex CLI is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.