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Tracked since2026
0 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free plan available, paid tiers above
Biggest pro
Reduces context switching by keeping the AI agent visible and accessible.
Biggest con
Requires a desktop application installation.
TL;DR - Backgrind
- Provides an always-on-top overlay for AI coding agents on macOS and Windows.
- Integrates with existing CLI agents (Claude Code, Cursor) or offers a hosted agent (Grindy).
- Minimizes context switching and provides remote control for agents via Live mode.
Pricing: Free plan available
Best for: Growing teams
What is Backgrind?
Backgrind is a desktop application for macOS and Windows that provides an always-on-top overlay window for AI coding agents. It allows developers to interact with their AI assistant (such as advanced AI coding assistants or Backgrind's hosted Grindy model) without switching contexts, keeping the agent visible over their editor, browser, or even a full-screen game. The tool is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing CLI-based AI agents, preserving user logins and history.
It aims to streamline the coding process by allowing developers to fire off tasks to their AI agent and continue working or playing, only being notified when the agent requires input or completes a task. Backgrind also offers its own hosted AI agent, Grindy, which requires no setup, API keys, or separate accounts, and features a large context window for complex tasks. For enhanced productivity, it includes a "Live mode" to remotely manage agents from mobile devices and a "Vibe code mode" for hands-off, results-focused development.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reduces context switching by keeping the AI agent visible and accessible.
- Offers flexibility by supporting both external and a hosted AI agent.
- Enhances productivity with remote management and hands-off coding modes.
- Prioritizes privacy with local secret management and end-to-end encrypted remote access.
Cons
- Requires a desktop application installation.
- Some advanced features are listed as "coming soon".
Key Features
Always-on-top overlay windowSupport for multiple AI coding agents (Claude Code, Cursor, Grindy, Codex coming soon)Click-through glance mode for transparencyContext-aware notifications for agent input/completionMini-IDE features (file tree, syntax-highlighted previews, Markdown rendering)Multi-root workspace support for running several agents concurrently.grindignore file for privacy and securityLive mode for remote agent management via mobile devices
Pricing
Freemium
Backgrind offers a generous free tier with optional paid upgrades for advanced features.
Reviews
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Backgrind FAQ
What AI coding agents can I use with Backgrind?
Backgrind supports integrating with your existing Claude Code and Cursor CLI agents. It also offers its own hosted agent called Grindy, and plans to support Codex in the future.
How does Backgrind handle my sensitive information like API keys?
Backgrind allows you to specify a
.grindignore file, similar to .gitignore, to mark files like .env or those containing API keys, ensuring they never leave your machine and remain private.What is 'Live mode' and how does it work?
Live mode allows you to command your AI agents from your phone or iPad, mirroring your desktop Backgrind interface. Pairing is initiated on your desktop with a one-time code and is end-to-end encrypted, ensuring your code remains secure and private during remote interaction.
Can I use Backgrind with multiple coding projects simultaneously?
Yes, Backgrind supports multi-root workspaces, similar to VS Code, allowing you to run several AI agents side-by-side, each pinned to its own folder and configured with a different backend if desired.
What is the 'Vibe code mode' feature?
Vibe code mode is designed for developers who prefer to describe what they want rather than meticulously reviewing every line of code. It hides the source code and allows the agent to work hands-off, focusing on delivering results while Backgrind adjusts how much it explains versus quietly handles.
How is the hosted Grindy agent different from using my own CLI agents?
Grindy is Backgrind's hosted AI agent that requires no installation, API keys, or separate AI accounts. It's integrated directly into the app, offers a large context window, and is billed on a pay-per-use basis, whereas using your own CLI agents means you manage their setup and billing independently.
Does Backgrind interfere with my other applications or games?
Backgrind is designed to float as an always-on-top overlay. It features a 'click-through glance mode' where you can tap a key to make the window transparent, allowing clicks and keystrokes to pass through to the underlying application. It only notifies you with flashes and chimes when your agent specifically needs your attention.
What operating systems does Backgrind support?
Backgrind is available for both macOS and Windows operating systems.
Source: backgrind.com