Comparison
Claude Code vs OpenClaw
How the two compare on the things that decide whether your setup carries over: open standards, license, models and where they run.
| Claude Code | OpenClaw | |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Anthropic | OpenClaw community |
| License | Proprietary | Open source |
| Models | Anthropic Claude models | See vendor docs |
| Runs in | Terminal, IDE, Desktop, Web | Local, Messaging |
| MCP | MCP: supported | ?MCP: not yet verified |
| Agent Skills | Agent Skills: supported | Agent Skills: supported |
| AGENTS.md | ?AGENTS.md: not yet verified | ?AGENTS.md: not yet verified |
| ACP | ACP: supported | ACP: supported |
Key differences
- OpenClaw is open source; Claude Code is proprietary. If you need to self-host, audit or fork the harness, that settles it.
- Claude Code also runs in Terminal, IDE, Desktop, Web; OpenClaw also runs in Local, Messaging.
- Claude Code supports MCP; we have not verified it for OpenClaw.
- Both support 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.
OpenClaw
Open-source personal assistant that runs locally and lives in the messaging apps you already use, with cron jobs, plugins and approvals.
FAQ
- Is Claude Code or OpenClaw open source?
- Claude Code is proprietary. OpenClaw is open source.
- Do Claude Code and OpenClaw support MCP servers?
- Claude Code: yes. OpenClaw: not verified yet.
- Can I reuse Agent Skills between Claude Code and OpenClaw?
- 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
More comparisons
Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.