As AI-powered software development tools continue to reshape how we write code, Cursor and Devin stand out as two prominent solutions in the market. Both offer AI programming assistance for developers, but while Cursor focuses on being an enhanced code editor with AI capabilities, Devin positions itself as a full-fledged autonomous AI teammate. This comparison will help you understand the key differences and make an informed decision for your development needs.
Feature Comparison
Code Completion
Cursor
Cursor offers robust code completion through its Cursor Tab feature, providing intelligent suggestions for entire code blocks and multi-line changes. It goes beyond traditional autocomplete by offering context-aware suggestions based on recent changes and linter errors. Users can partially accept suggestions using Ctrl/⌘ →, with the system providing 2,000 suggestions for subscribers to the free tier, and unlimited access for Pro subscribers.
Devin
Devin takes a different approach to code completion by functioning as an autonomous Ai programming assistant. Rather than providing real-time suggestions, it can write complete code blocks, entire functions, and even full applications independently. It focuses on producing complete, tested code rather than line-by-line suggestions.
AI Chat Capabilities
Cursor
Cursor's AI chat system is deeply integrated into the editor, offering context-aware code discussions with support for multiple AI models. It includes features like code block generation with instant apply functionality, chat history preservation, and automatic inclusion of relevant file context. The system also supports web search capabilities for up-to-date information.
Devin
Devin's chat capabilities are more focused on project-level collaboration, allowing interactions through multiple channels, including Slack and its own web interface. It can engage in detailed technical discussions, explain code, and handle complex development tasks. The chat system is designed to maintain context across entire development sessions and can be accessed through various integration points.
Context Awareness
Cursor
Cursor employs automatic indexing of codebases for better context awareness, using embeddings-based search for accurate code references. It allows customizable indexing rules via .cursorignore, and maintains privacy by avoiding plaintext code storage. The system understands the entire project context for more relevant suggestions.
Devin
Devin demonstrates advanced context awareness by maintaining comprehensive knowledge of the entire codebase, including repository history and documentation. It can understand project requirements, existing architectures, and coding patterns. The system includes features like machine snapshots and knowledge management to maintain context across sessions.
Privacy and Security
Cursor
Cursor prioritizes privacy with an optional Privacy Mode to prevent code storage, ensuring no permanent storage of plaintext code. It offers local processing of sensitive information, transparent data handling policies, and configurable codebase indexing. Users can use their own API keys for various AI providers.
Devin
Devin maintains SOC 2 Type II certification and implements comprehensive security measures, including data encryption in transit and at rest. It offers enterprise-grade features like VPC deployment options, custom data retention policies, and secure credential sharing via Secrets Manager. The system also includes role-based access management and multi-factor authentication.
Pricing
Cursor
- Hobby (Free)
- 14-day Pro trial
- 50 slow premium model uses
- 2,000 completions
- Pro ($20/month)
- 500 fast premium model uses
- Unlimited slow premium model uses
- Unlimited completions
- 10 Claude Opus uses
- Business ($40/user/month)
- All Pro features
- Org-wide privacy mode
- Team management
- Advanced administration tools
Devin
- Teams Plan ($500/month)
- Unlimited seats
- ACU allocation
- Slack integration
- Shared workspace
- Knowledge sharing
- Enterprise (Custom pricing)
- All Teams features
- SSO with Okta
- VPC deployment
- Custom data retention
- Usage analytics
Conclusion
Cursor and Devin represent two different approaches to AI-assisted development. Cursor excels as an enhanced code editor with powerful AI features, making it ideal for developers who want to maintain their existing workflow while gaining AI assistance. Its pricing structure and feature set make it accessible to individual developers and small teams.
Devin, on the other hand, positions itself as a more comprehensive solution, acting as an autonomous team member capable of handling complex development tasks independently. It's better suited for larger teams and enterprises that need a more integrated AI solution for their development workflow. While potentially more powerful, it comes with a steeper learning curve and higher resource requirements.
