Cline is an open-source coding agent that can work with files and development tools through a selected model provider. It is suited to repository tasks where you want to discuss a change before the agent edits files or executes commands. The extension is free for individuals, while model access has separate payment and configuration choices.
Workflow
Start in Plan mode to read code, search, and discuss an approach. The documented Plan mode cannot modify files or execute commands. Switch to Act when you want the agent to apply changes and run tools. Review the diff and the actual test output before accepting the result. Approvals are configurable: Auto Approve can allow selected action categories, and YOLO automates approval more broadly. Do not assume every action always pauses. Local-model setup is also supported, including Ollama and LM Studio; it is not exclusive to another extension.
Costs and limits
You can bring provider API keys or use Cline’s usage-billing provider with a prepaid credit balance. Paid models consume that balance according to use. ClinePass is a separate subscription provider, so a statement that all Cline access has no subscriptions would be misleading. Free model entries, local hardware requirements, and provider limits still matter. A local main model does not by itself establish the behavior of external tools or all auxiliary requests. Documentation checked on October 23, 2026. This page does not report measured model quality or coding success rates.