An AI-first code editor built on VS Code that can read your whole codebase and write multi-file changes from a prompt.
Why we recommend it
Cursor is the tool that made 'vibe coding' mainstream. For designers who write some code, it removes the biggest blocker — you describe the change, it writes it across files.
Strengths
- Understands your entire codebase, not just open files
- Familiar VS Code interface and extensions
- Multi-file edits from one prompt
Keep in mind
- Monthly cost adds up for casual use
- Still needs review — it can confidently write wrong code
How much does Cursor cost?
Free – $20/user/mo — Free tier, with paid plans.
List price, excluding tax. Compare prices across the directory.
Cursor alternatives and related tools
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Claude
An AI assistant strong at long-form reasoning, writing, code, and working through design problems conversationally.
Freemium2 AI prompts for ai & vibe coding — ready-to-copy prompts for this discipline, organised alongside the directory. Browse ai & vibe coding prompts →