Cursor vs Windsurf
Which AI AI Coding tool is better in 2026?
Cursor
The AI code editor built for productive engineers.
Windsurf
Agentic AI IDE for next-generation coding.
Side-by-side
| Cursor | Windsurf | |
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | The AI code editor built for productive engineers. | Agentic AI IDE for next-generation coding. |
| Founded | 2022 | 2021 |
| HQ | San Francisco, US | Mountain View, US |
| Employees | 51-200 | 51-200 |
| Total funding | $900M | $243M |
| Latest round | Series C · Jun 5, 2025 | Series C · Aug 29, 2024 |
| Valuation | — | — |
| Pricing | Freemium · From $20/mo | Freemium · From $15/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Categories |
🟢 Strengths of Cursor
- Has raised more capital ($900M vs $243M)
- Higher Neuron score (61 vs 53)
- Newer company (2022)
🔵 Strengths of Windsurf
- Lower starting price ($15/mo)
- More mature (2021)
Which should you choose?
Choose Windsurf if price matters most — it starts at Freemium · From $15/mo, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Coding tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose Cursor if you want the most established option — it has raised $900M, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
Frequently asked questions
Cursor vs Windsurf — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Cursor has raised more capital and is the more established option; Windsurf is cheaper to start. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Cursor cheaper than Windsurf?
No — Windsurf starts at Freemium · From $15/mo, while Cursor starts at Freemium · From $20/mo.
Do Cursor and Windsurf offer free plans?
Cursor: Paid only. Windsurf: Paid only.
Explore more AI Coding tools
Contextual paths to related AI startups, deals and rankings.