OpenClaude

OpenClaude is an open-source terminal-based coding agent that connects to various AI models and tools to execute software development tasks.

OpenClaude acts as an agent in the command line interface that executes coding tasks, creates file edits, and runs bash commands. It functions by connecting to various LLM backends including OpenAI, Gemini, Ollama, GitHub Models, and LM Studio. Users switch between model providers with a single command without rewriting configurations. The tool includes support for MCP servers, persistent sessions, and repo-specific profiles. It outputs changes as reviewable diffs in real-time, allowing users to watch the agent loop in action. The software requires Node.js version 22 or higher.

OpenClaude at a glance

Best for: Software engineer
Runs on: CLI
Pricing: Free
Released: April 2026
Category: AI coding tool
Website: openclaude.gitlawb.com

Key features

Connects to OpenAI, Gemini, Ollama, Grok, and other API-compatible endpoints
Executes bash commands, file edits, grep, and glob operations
Supports MCP servers and custom tool integrations
Provides non-interactive print mode with JSON output
Saves model, authentication, and runtime defaults via repository profiles
Enables session resuming, branching, and rewinding
Allows background tasks and worktree isolation

Use it for

Automating coding tasks within a terminal environment
Executing file edits and shell commands via AI agents
Switching between different AI coding models within a single session
Maintaining and reviewing agent-generated code changes

Companions

Tools that articles about OpenClaude recommend using with it, each with its job.

Context7 — Provides up-to-date documentation for AI agents and code editors.
Ollama — Run local models at zero marginal cost, with code kept on your machine.
OpenRouter — Access over 500 models and 80 providers through one unified API.
Daytona — Runs sessions in isolated sandboxes synced to git branches.
Composio — Equips AI agents with tools, managed user auth, and sandboxes across 1,500+ apps
Oh My OpenCode Slim — Lightweight multi-agent orchestration and background tasks.

Alternatives to OpenClaude

OpenCode — Works with 75+ model providers, local models, and existing subscriptions
Cline — Open source, any model, with approval on every step
Command Code — Repairs open model tool calls and learns developer patterns automatically.
OpenChamber — Run and review multi-model AI coding agents from desktop, browser, and mobile devices.
jevgrep — Reduces coding agent costs by providing targeted, relevant repository context.
OpenCursor — Connects multi-provider LLMs or local models for agentic coding directly inside VS Code.
OpenSandbox — Provides isolated environments with multi-language SDKs and lifecycle management.
opensrc — Provides AI agents direct access to package source code rather than types.
OpenViking — Unifies agent memory, knowledge RAG, and skills into a single directory structure.
Oracle — Provides a single entry point for multiple pro AI agents and session management.
SuperClaude — Adds 30 slash commands and 8 MCP servers to Claude Code.
OpenMonoAgent — Runs locally on your own hardware with no recurring subscription fees.

All OpenClaude alternatives