HEAD-TO-HEAD

Claude Code vs. Codex

See what each agent is suited for and jump to the details that matter for your task.

What matters for your task

Example task Develop software

Claude Code
A good fit if you want to work with the same agent in the terminal, VS Code, JetBrains, the desktop app or the browser
Codex
A good fit if you want to hand software tasks in repositories to an agent via app, CLI or editor

Workspace Check whether you work in an editor, a terminal, on your own machine or in the cloud.
Approvals Check which actions the agent may take and who approves them.
Model choice Check which models your access includes and whether you can connect your own.

Coding agent

Coding agent for understanding code, fixing errors, testing, and making changes through terminal, editor, or web.

Tool category: Coding agents
Environment: Terminal, editor, desktop and web
Selbstbetrieb: Possible
Entry plan on pricing page: Pro: USD 20 per month; alternatively USD 200 prepaid annually, excluding taxes
Europe: Available
Sources reviewed: 9 October 2026

Coding agent

OpenAI's agent for software work: understand, change, and test code. Available in the desktop app, terminal (CLI), editor, and cloud.

RequirementLocal installation with internet accessThe CLI requires a supported operating system, at least 4 GB of RAM, and an internet connection.
RequirementWrite and execution permissionsIn manual mode, sessions start with read access. File changes and commands require approval; settings and organization rules determine the scope.
LimitationDesktop access requires a paid subscriptionThe desktop app already includes Claude Code. Anthropic requires a paid subscription for this access method; other access methods have their own requirements.

RequirementAccess to files and the networkThe environment and permission profile determine which files Codex can read or change and which services it can access.
RequirementLocal schedules require the app to be runningFor scheduled work in a local project, the computer and desktop app must be running and the project available.
LimitationSchedules are managed in the app or on the webThe CLI and editor extension do not have their own Scheduled management. You can prepare tasks there; they are configured in the app or on the web.

Based on dated provider sources, not hands-on product tests. Prices and availability may change; each profile states its review date.