Antigravity CLI is a coding agent that runs in your terminal. Claude Desktop is Anthropic's chat app for Mac and Windows, which you can connect to your apps and files with connectors and extensions. They overlap less than they first appear to.
The short version
| Antigravity CLI | Claude Desktop | |
|---|---|---|
| Made by | Anthropic | |
| What it is | Terminal coding agent | Chat app |
| Needs a terminal | Yes | No |
| Works across a codebase | Yes | No, it is a chat app |
| Free plan | Yes, Individuals plan with basic weekly rate limits | Yes, sign in with a free Claude account |
| MCP servers | Yes | Yes (connectors, local MCP servers and extensions) |
Check Google's pricing page and claude.com/pricing for current plans.
Key differences
Job to be done. Antigravity CLI reads a project folder, proposes edits and runs commands with your approval. Claude Desktop is for conversation, with connectors linking Claude to tools such as calendars, documents and project trackers.
Setup. Claude Desktop is an app you install and sign in to. Antigravity CLI needs a terminal and a one-line installer.
Access to your data. Claude Desktop's connectors can read or change data in your accounts, so review what you grant. Antigravity CLI can edit files and run commands, so read each approval prompt.
Who should pick what
- You never want to open a terminal: Claude Desktop.
- You want help changing a real code project: Antigravity CLI, or Claude Code if you prefer Anthropic's agent.
- You want to link an AI to everyday work tools: Claude Desktop. See connectors for non-coders.
Our verdict
Different tools for different jobs. Many people could use a chat app and a coding agent side by side. Start your coding side with our Antigravity CLI getting started guide.