# Kilo Code vs Roo Code

> Side-by-side comparison of Kilo Code (Kilo Code) and Roo Code (Roo Code): pricing, key features, ideal use cases and verdicts.

Source: https://ai.dosa.dev/compare/kilo-code-vs-roo-code · IDE Extensions · Updated 2026-10-01 · Published by dosa.dev

## Quick answer

Kilo Code (Freemium) is best for experienced developers who require model flexibility, cost transparency, and the ability to use AI agents across multiple IDEs and terminal environments. Roo Code (Free) is best for developers who prioritize open-source transparency, granular control over AI behavior, and the ability to switch between different LLM providers to optimize for cost or performance.

## Comparison table

| | [Kilo Code](https://ai.dosa.dev/tools/kilo-code) | [Roo Code](https://ai.dosa.dev/tools/roo-code) |
|---|---|---|
| Company | Kilo Code | Roo Code |
| Category | IDE Extensions & Plugins | IDE Extensions & Plugins |
| Pricing | Freemium | Free |
| Best for | Experienced developers who require model flexibility, cost transparency, and the ability to use AI agents across multiple IDEs and terminal environments. | Developers who prioritize open-source transparency, granular control over AI behavior, and the ability to switch between different LLM providers to optimize for cost or performance. |
| Not ideal for | Users seeking a zero-configuration, turnkey AI-native IDE experience or those who prefer a flat-rate, all-inclusive subscription model. | Users seeking a turnkey, out-of-the-box AI experience, or those who prefer a managed, all-in-one subscription service without the need to manage API keys. |
| Verdict | Kilo Code is a powerful, highly configurable tool for developers who prioritize control, open-source transparency, and multi-platform support over the simplicity of a closed, opinionated AI IDE. | While historically a top-tier, highly customizable agentic tool for VS Code, Roo Code is no longer actively maintained. Developers should migrate to Cline or ZooCode for continued support and updates. |

## Key features

### Kilo Code

- Multi-platform support (VS Code, JetBrains, CLI, Cloud Agents)
- Agent-based workflow (Code, Plan, Debug, Ask)
- Model-agnostic gateway with 500+ model support
- Local model integration (Ollama, LM Studio)
- Automated code reviews and vulnerability analysis

### Roo Code

- Multi-mode agentic system (Architect, Code, Debug, Ask)
- Customizable AI personas via Custom Modes
- Model-agnostic support for cloud and local LLMs
- Agentic file system and terminal access with human-in-the-loop approval
- MCP (Model Context Protocol) server integration

## FAQ

### Is Kilo Code or Roo Code free?

Kilo Code is Freemium; Roo Code is Free. Check each tool's detail page for full pricing breakdowns.

### Which should I choose, Kilo Code or Roo Code?

Kilo Code is best for Experienced developers who require model flexibility, cost transparency, and the ability to use AI agents across multiple IDEs and terminal environments. Roo Code is best for Developers who prioritize open-source transparency, granular control over AI behavior, and the ability to switch between different LLM providers to optimize for cost or performance.

### What is the main difference between Kilo Code and Roo Code?

Kilo Code (Kilo Code) is listed as IDE Extensions & Plugins; Roo Code (Roo Code) is listed as IDE Extensions & Plugins. Kilo Code is an open-source, agentic engineering platform that integrates into VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, and the CLI to automate coding tasks. It allows developers to switch betwee… By contrast, Roo Code was a powerful, open-source AI coding agent for VS Code that featured multi-mode agentic workflows, including Architect, Code, and Debug modes. It allowed developers to m…

## Links

- Kilo Code review: https://ai.dosa.dev/tools/kilo-code
- Kilo Code alternatives: https://ai.dosa.dev/tools/kilo-code/alternatives
- Roo Code review: https://ai.dosa.dev/tools/roo-code
- Roo Code alternatives: https://ai.dosa.dev/tools/roo-code/alternatives