🤝 no affiliate links · no paid placements · every entry lists honest trade-offs

GitHub Copilot alternatives

Killing $10/mo (~$120/yr) — here are 2 verified escapes, honest trade-offs included.

head-to-head

Continue
price Free (bring your own model/API key)
self-hostable yes
license Apache-2.0
verified 2026-08

free & open source (1)

Continue oss self-host Apache-2.0
Free (bring your own model/API key)

Open-source AI code assistant for VS Code/JetBrains — use free local models or your own API keys.

trade-offs: Setup is more involved · Quality depends on the model you pick

github →

cheaper, but not open source (1)

Free for individuals

Autocomplete + chat free for personal use, comparable to Copilot.

trade-offs: Closed source · Team features are paid

faq

What is the best free alternative to GitHub Copilot?

Continue is the top free option — Open-source AI code assistant for VS Code/JetBrains — use free local models or your own API keys.

How much can I save by switching from GitHub Copilot?

GitHub Copilot costs $10/mo, so switching to a free alternative saves roughly $120/year per seat.

Can GitHub Copilot be self-hosted?

Yes — Continue can be self-hosted for free.

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