Comparison
Claude Code vs Gemini CLI
How the two compare on the things that decide whether your setup carries over: open standards, license, models and where they run.
| Claude Code | Gemini CLI | |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Anthropic | |
| License | Proprietary | Apache-2.0 |
| Models | Anthropic Claude models | Google Gemini models |
| Runs in | Terminal, IDE, Desktop, Web | Terminal |
| MCP | MCP: supported | MCP: supported |
| Agent Skills | Agent Skills: supported | Agent Skills: supported |
| AGENTS.md | ?AGENTS.md: not yet verified | AGENTS.md: supported |
| ACP | ACP: supported | ACP: supported |
Key differences
- Gemini CLI is open source (Apache-2.0); Claude Code is proprietary. If you need to self-host, audit or fork the harness, that settles it.
- Models: Claude Code runs Anthropic Claude models; Gemini CLI runs Google Gemini models.
- Claude Code also runs in IDE, Desktop, Web.
- Gemini CLI supports AGENTS.md; we have not verified it for Claude Code.
- Both support MCP, Agent Skills, ACP, so MCP servers, skills and repo instructions you set up carry over if you switch.
In their own words
Claude Code
Anthropic's agentic coding tool. Reads the codebase, edits files, runs commands, and extends through MCP servers, Skills, subagents, hooks and plugin marketplaces. Project instructions live in CLAUDE.md.
FAQ
- Is Claude Code or Gemini CLI open source?
- Claude Code is proprietary. Gemini CLI is open source under Apache-2.0.
- Do Claude Code and Gemini CLI support MCP servers?
- Claude Code: yes. Gemini CLI: yes.
- Can I reuse Agent Skills between Claude Code and Gemini CLI?
- Yes. Both read the open Agent Skills (SKILL.md) format, so the same skill folder works in both.
Set up MCP servers in either one
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Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.