Both tools add AI to the editor you already use, such as VS Code. GitHub Copilot is GitHub's assistant, sold in plans. Cline is an open-source agent that uses the AI provider you choose.
The short version
| Cline | GitHub Copilot | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Open-source coding agent | Assistant inside your editor, plus coding agent and CLI |
| Where you work | VS Code and other editors, plus a CLI and desktop app | VS Code, JetBrains and other editors |
| Open source | Yes (Apache 2.0) | No |
| Cost | Tool is free for individuals. You pay for model usage | Free plan (2,000 completions a month, limited chat and agent use), plus paid plans |
| AI models | Your choice of provider | Chosen within Copilot's plans |
| MCP servers | Yes | Yes |
Check cline.bot/pricing and github.com/features/copilot/plans.
Key differences
Pricing model. Copilot is plan-based, so costs are easier to predict. Cline charges nothing for the tool, but your model usage can go up and down.
Control. Cline lets you pick the provider, including local models. By default it asks before each file edit or command, and has Plan and Act modes plus checkpoints.
GitHub ties. Copilot works with GitHub issues and pull requests.
Who should pick what
- You want a free plan to try: Copilot. See Copilot agent mode in VS Code.
- You want model choice and open source: Cline.
Our verdict
Copilot is the simple, predictable start. Cline is the flexible one for people who want to steer their own models.