AI coding · Head to head
Cursor vs OpenAI Codex: which is better?
Short answer
They cost the same in the first year ($96). Pick Cursor for AI-first code editor; pick OpenAI Codex for coding agent bundled with ChatGPT.
| Fact | Cursor | OpenAI Codex | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | AI-first code editor | Coding agent bundled with ChatGPT | — |
| Free plan | Yes, limited agent and chat requests | Yes, limited Codex access | Tie |
| Entry plan | Plus: $8 / mo | Go: $8 / mo | Tie |
| Mid plan | Premium: $30 / mo | Plus: $20 / mo | OpenAI Codex |
| Top plan | Ultra: $200 / mo | Pro: $100 / mo | OpenAI Codex |
| 1st year | $96 | $96 | Tie |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux | Web, macOS, Windows, API | OpenAI Codex |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Cursor or OpenAI Codex?
They cost the same in the first year ($96).
| 1st year | Cursor | OpenAI Codex |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $96 | $96 |
| Mid | $360 | $240 |
| Top | $2,400 | $1,200 |
Which has the better free plan, Cursor or OpenAI Codex?
Neither stands out: Cursor: Yes, limited agent and chat requests; OpenAI Codex: Yes, limited Codex access.
Should you pick Cursor or OpenAI Codex?
Pick Cursor if
- you want AI-first code editor
- the free plan is enough (limited agent and chat requests)
Pick OpenAI Codex if
- you want coding agent bundled with ChatGPT
- the free plan is enough (limited Codex access)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Cursor pricing | cursor.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| OpenAI Codex pricing | chatgpt.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare