VSCode + ClaudeDev + Continue : STOP PAYING for CURSOR with this OPENSOURCE & LOCAL Alternative

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through setting up a free, local, and open-source alternative to the Cursor AI coding editor using VSCode, ClaudeDev, and ContinueDev. By following these steps, you'll learn how to enhance your coding experience without the costs associated with proprietary software while keeping your data secure.

Step 1: Understanding the Limitations of Cursor AI

• High Costs: Cursor AI can cost approximately $20 a month, which may not be justifiable for all users.
• Data Privacy Risks: Using cloud-based services can expose your code to external servers, risking data privacy.
• Limited Customization: Proprietary software often lacks the flexibility needed for tailored coding experiences.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Environment

1. Install Visual Studio Code (VSCode)

   • Download and install VSCode from the official site.

2. Install NeoVim Extension

   • In VSCode, go to Extensions (Ctrl+Shift+X) and search for "NeoVim".
   • Install the NeoVim extension from the marketplace.

3. Install ClaudeDev and ContinueDev Extensions

   • Similarly, search for "ClaudeDev" and "ContinueDev" in the Extensions Marketplace.
   • Install both extensions to enhance coding capabilities.

Step 3: Configuring Your Extensions

• Open the settings for each extension to customize their functionalities based on your preferences.
• Set up ClaudeDev with the desired language models (like GPT-4 or Claude-3) for coding assistance.
• Configure ContinueDev to optimize code completion and suggestions.

Step 4: Connecting Open Source Models

• If you have access to open-source language models, download and set them up locally.
• Point ClaudeDev to use these models for efficient coding assistance.

Step 5: Maximizing Productivity

• Utilize multi-file editing by opening multiple files at once in VSCode for better project management.
• Explore the features of ClaudeDev and ContinueDev for tasks like:
  • Code completion
  • Code generation
  • Debugging assistance

Step 6: Practical Application

• Follow along with a mini-project, like creating a Minesweeper game, to see how these tools work together.
• This hands-on experience will solidify your understanding of the setup and usage.

Conclusion

By integrating VSCode with ClaudeDev and ContinueDev, you can create a powerful, cost-effective, and customizable coding environment. Not only will you save money, but you will also enhance your productivity and maintain data privacy. Next steps could include exploring further extensions or diving into more complex projects to fully utilize the capabilities of your new setup.