Comparison

Cursor vs Roo Code

How the two compare on the things that decide whether your setup carries over: open standards, license, models and where they run.

CursorRoo Code
MakerAnysphereRoo Code
LicenseProprietaryApache-2.0
ModelsSee vendor docsSee vendor docs
Runs inIDE, CLI, WebIDE
MCPMCP: supportedMCP: supported
Agent SkillsAgent Skills: supportedAgent Skills: supported
AGENTS.mdAGENTS.md: supportedAGENTS.md: supported
ACPACP: supported?ACP: not yet verified

Key differences

  • Roo Code is open source (Apache-2.0); Cursor is proprietary. If you need to self-host, audit or fork the harness, that settles it.
  • Cursor also runs in CLI, Web.
  • Cursor supports ACP; we have not verified it for Roo Code.
  • Both support MCP, Agent Skills, AGENTS.md, so MCP servers, skills and repo instructions you set up carry over if you switch.

In their own words

Cursor

AI editor and coding agent. Supports MCP, Agent Skills, AGENTS.md, and runs as both an ACP agent and client.

WebsiteMCP docs

Roo Code

Open-source multi-mode coding agent for VS Code with custom modes, MCP, Skills and AGENTS.md.

Website

FAQ

Is Cursor or Roo Code open source?
Cursor is proprietary. Roo Code is open source under Apache-2.0.
Do Cursor and Roo Code support MCP servers?
Cursor: yes. Roo Code: yes.
Can I reuse Agent Skills between Cursor and Roo Code?
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

MCP install guide for CursorAll official MCP servers

More comparisons

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Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.