AI coding · Head to head
OpenAI Codex vs Amazon Q Developer: which is better?
Short answer
OpenAI Codex costs less in the first year ($96 vs $1,140). Pick OpenAI Codex for coding agent bundled with ChatGPT; pick Amazon Q Developer for AWS-centric development teams.
| Fact | OpenAI Codex | Amazon Q Developer | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Coding agent bundled with ChatGPT | AWS-centric development teams | — |
| Free plan | Yes, limited Codex access | Yes, free tier with advanced capabilities | Tie |
| Entry plan | Go: $8 / mo | Pro: $19 / seat / mo | — |
| Mid plan | Plus: $20 / mo | Pro: $19 / seat / mo | — |
| Top plan | Pro: $100 / mo | Pro: $19 / seat / mo | — |
| 1st year | $96 | $1,140 | OpenAI Codex |
| Platforms | Web, macOS, Windows, API | Web, API | OpenAI Codex |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, OpenAI Codex or Amazon Q Developer?
Neither stands out: OpenAI Codex: Yes, limited Codex access; Amazon Q Developer: Yes, free tier with advanced capabilities.
Should you pick OpenAI Codex or Amazon Q Developer?
Pick OpenAI Codex if
- you want coding agent bundled with ChatGPT
- the free plan is enough (limited Codex access)
Pick Amazon Q Developer if
- you want AWS-centric development teams
- the free plan is enough (free tier with advanced capabilities)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| OpenAI Codex pricing | chatgpt.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Amazon Q Developer pricing | aws.amazon.com/q/developer/pricing/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare