Kilo Code

Kilo Code is a free, open-source AI coding agent extension for VS Code that generates code from natural language, automates tasks, and runs terminal commands. With over 1.4 million installs and 3 million downloads, it supports 500+ AI models — including GPT-5.5, Claude Opus 4.7, Gemini 3.1 Pro, GLM, DeepSeek, and MiniMax — at transparent pricing that matches provider rates exactly.

Rebuilt on the same portable, open-source core as Kilo CLI, the extension delivers parallel tool calls, subagents, and cross-platform sessions that follow you from the CLI to the editor to Slack.

Key Features

1. 500+ Models, One Agent

Switch between frontier and open-source models with transparent pricing. Free models like Kilo Auto Free let you start coding immediately, while premium models plug in with your own API keys.

2. Parallel Execution

Parallel tool calls, parallel subagents, and custom subagents come built in. The Agent Manager runs multiple agents side by side with a diff panel and multi-model comparison for architecture decisions.

3. Inline Code Review

Review every edit file by file, comment on exact lines, and send structured review context back into the chat. The /review command handles staged, branch, and PR reviews.

4. MCP Server Marketplace

Find and use MCP servers to extend agent capabilities — or build your own. Sandboxed Auto Mode adds OS-level confinement around agent tool execution for safer autonomous runs.

5. Modes and Agents

Architect (planning), Coder (code), Debugger (debug), Ask, and custom agents defined as .kilo/agents/*.md markdown files replace the old modes system with full flexibility.

6. Worktrees and Cross-Platform Sessions

Create a git worktree per agent for isolation, or share sessions between CLI, VS Code, and Slack. Checkpoints (git-based snapshots) let you revert any message's changes.

Use Cases

• Vibe Coding: Build complete websites and apps from natural language with free models.
• Feature Development: Multi-file implementation with planning, coding, and testing.
• Code Review: Local AI-powered reviews of uncommitted, branch, or PR changes.
• Team Workflows: Cross-platform sessions from terminal to editor to Slack.

Pricing

Kilo Code is free and open source. You pay only for model usage:

• Free models: Start coding immediately at no cost (e.g., Kilo Auto Free).
• Premium models: Use your own API keys or a Kilo account; pricing matches provider rates.
• Kilo Pass: Optional all-in-one subscription for convenience across the platform.

Advantages & Unique Selling Points

1. Genuinely Free to Start: No paywall to begin coding with AI in VS Code.
2. Model Freedom: 500+ models with transparent, provider-matching pricing.
3. Modern Architecture: Parallel execution, worktrees, and inline review are native, not bolted on.
4. Cross-Platform Continuity: The same portable core powers CLI, editor, and Slack.

User Reviews

"Kilo Code is a powerful AI coding assistant that works directly inside Visual Studio Code — generate code, explain code, fix errors, and refactor projects." — Code With Yousaf, YouTube tutorial

"The best open-source AI coding extension for VS Code — completely free with tons of model choices." — Web Tech Knowledge, YouTube review

"Same editor. A much more capable engine underneath it." — Kilo Code promotional copy

Getting Started

1. Install: Search for "Kilo Code" in the VS Code extensions view, or install from the Visual Studio Marketplace.
2. Choose a Model: Start with a free model (Kilo Auto Free) or add your own API key for premium models.
3. Configure: Set granular per-tool permissions (bash, read, edit, etc.) in Auto Approve settings.
4. Start Coding: Open a tab, start an agent, and use worktrees when you want isolated execution.

Limitations

• VS Code Only: The primary extension targets VS Code (CLI and other platforms via the shared core).
• Free Model Limits: Free models are capped and can be saturated during high demand.
• Setup Complexity: Advanced features (worktrees, custom agents, permissions) have a learning curve.
• Young Project: Fast-moving releases mean documentation can lag behind.

Conclusion

Kilo Code delivers a genuinely free, open-source path to agentic coding in VS Code, backed by 500+ models, parallel execution, and a modern, portable architecture. For developers who want the power of tools like Cursor or Cline without the cost or lock-in, Kilo Code is one of the strongest options — especially for those coming from the now-discontinued Roo Code.

Recommended for: VS Code users wanting a free, model-flexible AI coding agent with parallel subagents and inline review.

Not recommended for: Teams needing a managed cloud agent with enterprise SLA and dedicated support.