TRAE - Github Copilot alternative
TRAE is an AI native IDE that acts as an independent AI engineer building software solutions. Built on VSCode foundation, it provides full IDE functionality including code editing, project management, extensions, and version control with real-time AI assistance. Builder Mode breaks down projects into steps before applying code changes, using a planning-first approach for more reliable outputs on complex multi-file edits. Solo developers may prefer it for substantially lower costs ($3 first month, $10/month regular) compared to competitors and free access to Claude 3.5 Sonnet or Claude 3.7 during early access.
Strengths
- Free tier includes unlimited slow requests to premium models (Claude 3.7, GPT-4o), with 10 fast requests and 50 slow requests per month for premium models
- Builder Mode uses methodical planning before code changes, breaking tasks into clear steps for higher accuracy on first attempts
- Supports most VSCode extensions with easy migration of existing VSCode settings and configurations
- Includes Model Context Protocol (MCP) support with dedicated marketplace UI for one-click installation of official MCP servers
- Max Mode supports extended context windows up to 200k tokens (Kimi-K2) and 272k tokens (GPT-5)
- Multimodal chat allows uploading screenshots or terminal outputs for enhanced contextual assistance
Weaknesses
- Security research documents extensive telemetry framework with persistent connections to multiple ByteDance domains, transmitting data even when idle
- Telemetry toggle only controls first-party extension data; third-party extensions and other sources remain unaffected by settings
- No privacy mode available (users have requested this feature similar to Cursor's privacy mode)
- Personal data retained for five years after service termination; non-personal data retained indefinitely
- Tab completion feature (Cue) needs refinement to match established competitors
Best for
Developers seeking lower-cost AI coding assistance with advanced models. Suitable for learning and personal projects. Chinese developers benefit from native language interface support.
Pricing plans
- Free — $0/month — 10 fast requests + 50 slow requests (premium models), 1,000 requests (advanced models), 5,000 autocomplete/month
- Pro — $3 first month/$10 regular (or $7.50/month annual) — 600 fast requests + unlimited slow requests (premium models), unlimited advanced model requests, unlimited autocomplete
Tech details
- Type: AI-powered IDE (VSCode fork)
- IDEs: Standalone application for macOS, Windows 10/11, Linux (planned). Built-in support for VSCode extensions
- Key features: Builder Mode with task decomposition, Chat mode for code assistance, multimodal input (images/files), Webview preview, AI-generated Git commits, custom agent system, terminal suggestions, code completion
- Privacy / hosting: Local-first principles with codebase files stored locally; temporary uploads for indexing deleted after processing. Data stored in United States, Singapore, and Malaysia servers. Note: Independent security research indicates persistent telemetry connections regardless of settings
- Models / context window: Claude 3.7 Sonnet, Claude 3.5 Sonnet, GPT-4o, GPT-5, Kimi-K2, DeepSeek; supports OpenRouter integration. Context windows: up to 200k tokens (Kimi-K2) and 272k tokens (GPT-5) in Max Mode
When to choose this over Github Copilot
- Significantly lower cost at $3-10/month versus Github Copilot's pricing, with free tier offering substantial capabilities
- Builder Mode provides automated project-wide task breakdown and code generation from natural language descriptions
- Free access to cutting-edge models (Claude 3.7, GPT-4o) without subscription during early access period
When Github Copilot may be a better fit
- Organizations with strict data privacy requirements should avoid TRAE due to documented extensive telemetry and data collection practices
- Projects requiring privacy mode or minimal data retention (TRAE retains personal data for 5 years, lacks privacy mode)
- Teams prioritizing established enterprise trust and transparent data handling over cost savings
Conclusion
TRAE has claimed top position on SWE-bench Verified leaderboard as of July 2025, demonstrating strong AI coding capabilities. The platform offers compelling value with free premium model access and innovative Builder Mode. However, independent security analysis reveals sophisticated telemetry infrastructure transmitting data to ByteDance servers. Best suited for learning, personal projects, or developers comfortable with ByteDance's data practices. Organizations handling sensitive code should carefully evaluate privacy implications before adoption.
Sources
FAQ
Is TRAE really free to use?
TRAE is currently completely free during early access, with all features including Builder Mode, multimodal chat, and code generation available without cost. A Pro plan launched in May 2025 costs $3 for the first month, then $10/month or $7.50/month billed annually. The free tier remains available with limited request quotas.
Can I migrate from VS Code or Cursor to TRAE?
Yes, TRAE is built on VSCode and supports most VSCode extensions, allowing easy import of existing VSCode settings, extensions, and keyboard shortcuts. Cursor users can also import their settings directly.
What AI models does TRAE support?
TRAE integrates Claude 3.7 Sonnet (latest), Claude 3.5 Sonnet, and GPT-4o models. Max Mode supports Kimi-K2-0905 and GPT-5 with extended context windows. The platform also supports OpenRouter integration for accessing additional AI models.
Does TRAE work offline?
Core IDE features work offline, but the AI assistant requires an internet connection to access GPT-4 and Claude models. Standard code editing, project management, and version control function without internet access.
What are the privacy concerns with TRAE?
Independent security research by Unit 221B identified sophisticated telemetry framework with persistent connections to ByteDance domains, transmitting data continuously even during idle periods. The telemetry toggle only controls first-party extension data; third-party extensions and other telemetry sources remain unaffected. Personal data is retained for five years after account termination.
Which programming languages does TRAE support?
TRAE supports mainstream programming languages including Python, JavaScript, Java, and other languages through its AI models and VSCode extension compatibility. The platform provides intelligent code completion, optimization, and debugging across these languages.
