Cline v3.1: A Cost-Effective Alternative to Cursor and Windsurf

If you are looking for something that can replace AI coders like Cursor or Windsurf just because they are costly and require software to download.

then in this article, let’s talk about something that might solve our problem.

I am talking about…

Cline v3.1

This isn’t just another tool; it’s the game-changer that turns Visual Studio Code (VS Code) into a fully autonomous AI coding agent — for free!

That’s right, free.

No fancy subscriptions, no hidden fees and just pure coding awesomeness.

BUT REMEMBER THIS DOESNT MEAN YOU DONT HAVE TO PAY FOR LLM API REQUEST AS THAT IS SOMETHING WHERE WE NEED TO PAY.

but, there are options where we can minimize this cost or even use local LLM that costs us nothing!!

As we know we all love VS Code for its simplicity and power but it’s not AI-powered like Cursor or Windsurf.

Those tools are good and all but what if you could get the same AI-driven magic without spending almost zero?

And that is through Cline extention in our own VS code editor.

What Makes Cline Special?

Actually, Cline is like the Robin to VS Code’s Batman.

It’s an AI agent that integrates seamlessly into your coding workflow.

This is created by the awesome developer Saran (shoutout to you!)

Cline lets you do what these other AI code editors generally do but with some more flexibility:

• Write code without lifting a finger.
• Build projects faster than ever.
• Use your favorite large language models (LLMs) like Google Gemini 2.0, DeepSeek, OpenAI or even local models like OLLAMA.

And here’s the kicker: it’s open-source.

That means you’re not locked into a system. You’re in control.

Getting Started with Cline

Alright, let’s dive in.

Here’s how to set up Cline and make the most of it.

Step 1: Install Visual Studio Code

First things first, download VS Code from code.visualstudio.com. Make sure you’re not downloading Visual Studio 2019 or 2022 — those are different beasts. Once installed, fire it up and let’s roll.

Step 2: Install Cline Extension

Go to the Extensions tab in VS Code (shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+X). Search for “Cline” and hit “Install.”

Once it’s done, you’ll see a little Cline icon in the sidebar. That’s your AI buddy, ready to go.

Step 3: Connect Your LLM

Here’s where the magic happens. In the Cline settings, choose your API provider. You’ve got options:

• Google Gemini 2.0: Free, but limited requests.
• DeepSeek: Super affordable and reliable.
• Local Models: Like LLaMA or ollama, if you’re want it exactly free.

Once we selected our LLM, then we need to pop in our API key and we are all set.

Let’s Build Something (Example)

Imagine we want to create a Next.js project.

Here’s how Cline makes it a easy:

Set Up the Project:

• Create a new folder in VS Code.
• Use the terminal to run the Next.js setup command (npx create-next-app).
• Name it something fun, like “ClineTestProject.”

Generate Code with Cline:

• Open the project and ask Cline to create a task manager app.
• Type a command like, “Create a simple task manager with add, edit, and delete functionalities.”

Cline will:

• Generate the components for you.
• Set up routes and APIs.
• Handle UI design.

It even shows you the API cost for every request.

For example, using DeepSeek might cost you $0.01 per task.

That’s peanuts compared to the value it provides.

Enhance the Design:

If you want a sleek, professional look? Just say, “Make the landing page more attractive and modern.”

Cline will tweak colors, layouts, and even animations.

Why Cline Rocks (with Examples!)

Real-Time Feedback

Unlike Cursor, Cline gives you a live preview of what’s happening.

Say you’re building a blog. Cline will show you:

• The original file.
• The updated file.
• The exact cost of the AI request (THAT IS MOST IMPORTANT).

Local Model Integration

Got a beefy PC?

Run models like LLaMA locally using tools like LM Studio or ollama.

For example:

• Install LLaMA 3.3 locally.
• Use it with Cline to write Python scripts or even build a machine-learning pipeline.

Affordable and Flexible

Let’s talk numbers. DeepSeek costs about $1 for 1,000 API requests. You could:

• Build a portfolio website.
• Develop a small business app.
• Experiment with AI models, all without breaking the bank.

Compare that to paid services like OpenAI — you’ll see why Cline is a no-brainer.

Tips for Power Users

• Optimize Prompts: Be specific. Instead of “Create a website,” say, “Build a responsive portfolio with a contact form and image gallery.”
• Mix APIs: Use free models for prototyping and paid ones like DeepSeek for production.
• Go Local: If you’re into privacy, local models like LLaMA are perfect.

Cline is a must-try for anyone who loves coding but hates repetitive tasks.

It’s like having an AI assistant that’s always ready to help — no complaints, no coffee breaks.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Cline adds value to your workflow.

So, what are you waiting for?

Lets download Cline and fire up VS Code and start building the future.

Let’s make coding fun again!