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Aider
VerifiedOpen-source AI pair programmer that edits your code right in the terminal.
4.6 (2,100 reviews)
About Aider
Aider is an open-source AI pair programmer that runs in your terminal and edits code directly in your local Git repository. It builds a map of your codebase for context, makes coordinated edits across multiple files, and automatically commits each change with a descriptive message — keeping your git history clean and easy to review or revert. Aider works with whichever LLM you choose to connect, including Claude, GPT-4, Gemini, or fully local models via Ollama, so you aren't locked into one provider. It's best suited to developers who want a focused, git-native editing loop rather than a full IDE experience.
Key Features
- Git-aware, auto-committed edits
- Coordinated multi-file changes
- Repository mapping for full codebase context
- Works with Claude, GPT-4, Gemini, or local models via Ollama
- Terminal-first workflow
Best For
- Git-native pair programming from the terminal
- Coordinated multi-file refactors
- Working with your own choice of LLM instead of a locked-in provider
Pros
- Free and fully open-source (Apache 2.0)
- Bring your own model — no vendor lock-in
- Clean, reversible git history from auto-commits
- Strong at disciplined, git-native editing
Cons
- Terminal-only, no graphical interface
- Steeper learning curve than IDE-integrated tools
- Cost depends entirely on which model you connect it to
