Which editor has better AI code completion?

Cursor offers multi-model AI support from OpenAI and Anthropic, giving you access to different AI approaches depending on your needs. Windsurf uses Codeium's predictive AI engine, which is optimized for speed and context-aware suggestions. Cursor provides more flexibility, while Windsurf focuses on consistent, fast predictions.

Can I use these editors for team collaboration?

Cursor includes built-in real-time collaboration tools designed for team-based development. Windsurf focuses primarily on individual developer productivity and doesn't emphasize team collaboration features in its core offering. Choose Cursor if team collaboration is a priority.

Do these editors work with my existing development tools?

Both integrate with version control systems like Git. Cursor's 98 Shyft score indicates strong integration capabilities with existing tool stacks. Windsurf consolidates many development tools directly into the editor, including terminal and deployment functions, reducing the need for external integrations.

Which editor is better for deployment workflows?

Windsurf has integrated deployment tools built directly into the editor, making it easier to ship code without switching contexts. Cursor focuses more on the coding and collaboration aspects, relying on external deployment pipelines. If deployment integration matters, Windsurf has the advantage.

How do the pricing models compare?

Pricing details are not specified in the available data for either tool. Both are B2B-focused products that likely offer subscription-based pricing. Check their respective websites for current pricing information and any free trial options.

Cursor vs Windsurf

Comprehensive comparison for 2026: features, pricing, and expert recommendations

By Shyft Research TeamUpdated Feb 27, 2026

TL;DR

Both tools is our recommended choice for most users
Compare ratings, features, and pricing below
See detailed pricing comparison below
Choose Cursor when you need multi-model AI flexibility, are working on complex projects requiring deep context understanding, or prioritize real-time team collaboration within the editor. Best for engineering teams that want the highest-rated AI code editor and need strong integration with existing tool stacks.

Cursor Rating

N/A

Windsurf Rating

N/A

Cursor Price

$0/mo

Windsurf Price

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Both Cursor and Windsurf represent the new generation of AI-native code editors, but they take different approaches to integrating AI into the development workflow. Cursor positions itself as an AI-first editor with support for multiple AI models from OpenAI and Anthropic, achieving a Shyft score of 98 out of 100. Windsurf, built by Codeium, focuses on consolidating the entire development pipeline into a single interface with predictive AI completion, terminal access, and deployment tools.

The core difference lies in architecture and scope. Cursor emphasizes deep project understanding and real-time collaboration, making it a natural fit for engineering teams working on complex, multi-developer projects. Windsurf prioritizes workflow efficiency by eliminating context switching between editor, terminal, and deployment tools, targeting developers who want to move from code to production without leaving their editor.

Your choice depends on whether you value AI model flexibility and team collaboration (Cursor) or prefer an integrated development environment that handles everything from code completion to deployment (Windsurf). Both tools accelerate development, but through different philosophies: Cursor through superior AI intelligence, Windsurf through workflow consolidation.

Quick Verdict

Cursor leads with its higher Shyft score (98 vs 83) and multi-model AI support, making it ideal for teams prioritizing cutting-edge AI capabilities. Windsurf offers a more integrated development experience with built-in terminal and deployment tools, better suited for developers seeking an all-in-one solution.

Choose Cursor

Cursor excels with its AI-first architecture and multi-model support from OpenAI and Anthropic, giving developers flexibility in choosing the best AI for their needs. Its exceptional Shyft score of 98 indicates strong integration capabilities and enterprise readiness. The inline AI chat and deep project understanding make it particularly effective for complex codebases and collaborative development.

Choose Cursor when you need multi-model AI flexibility, are working on complex projects requiring deep context understanding, or prioritize real-time team collaboration within the editor. Best for engineering teams that want the highest-rated AI code editor and need strong integration with existing tool stacks.

Choose Windsurf

Windsurf delivers a streamlined coding experience through Codeium's predictive AI engine, with integrated terminal commands and deployment tools that eliminate context switching. Its unified interface combines code completion, testing, and deployment in one editor, making it efficient for developers who value workflow consolidation. The focus on reducing friction between writing and shipping code makes it practical for fast-paced development cycles.

Choose Windsurf when you want an all-in-one development environment with built-in terminal and deployment capabilities, prefer Codeium's predictive AI approach, or need to minimize context switching during the development process. Ideal for individual developers or small teams focused on shipping features quickly without managing multiple tools.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Cursor

Windsurf

Frequently Asked Questions

Cursor and Windsurf both deliver on the promise of AI-accelerated coding, but serve different developer needs. Cursor's multi-model approach and 98 Shyft score make it the stronger choice for teams that need enterprise-grade AI capabilities and deep project context. Its real-time collaboration features and inline AI chat provide a foundation for team-based development at scale.

Windsurf excels at reducing friction in the development process by consolidating tools into one interface. If your priority is shipping code faster without juggling multiple applications, Windsurf's integrated terminal and deployment capabilities deliver immediate productivity gains. The decision ultimately comes down to whether you need best-in-class AI intelligence and collaboration (Cursor) or streamlined, all-in-one workflow efficiency (Windsurf).

Our Expert Verdict
“Cursor leads with its higher Shyft score (98 vs 83) and multi-model AI support, making it ideal for teams prioritizing cutting-edge AI capabilities. Windsurf offers a more integrated development experience with built-in terminal and deployment tools, better suited for developers seeking an all-in-one solution.”
Pros
• Cursor: AI-ready with MCP
• Windsurf: Established solution
Recommendation: We recommend depends for most use cases.
Shyft Research Team, February 2026

Verdict: Cursor vs Windsurf

Winner: depends

Common Questions: Cursor vs Windsurf

Both Cursor and Windsurf are strong B2B SaaS tools. Cursor and Windsurf. The best choice depends on your team size, budget, and specific feature requirements. Both offer ways to try before you buy.

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