Comparison

Gemini CLI vs Cursor

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

Gemini CLICursor
MakerGoogleAnysphere
LicenseApache-2.0Proprietary
ModelsGoogle Gemini modelsSee vendor docs
Runs inTerminalIDE, CLI, Web
MCPMCP: supportedMCP: supported
Agent SkillsAgent Skills: supportedAgent Skills: supported
AGENTS.mdAGENTS.md: supportedAGENTS.md: supported
ACPACP: supportedACP: supported

Key differences

  • Gemini CLI is open source (Apache-2.0); Cursor is proprietary. If you need to self-host, audit or fork the harness, that settles it.
  • Gemini CLI also runs in Terminal; Cursor also runs in IDE, CLI, Web.
  • Both support MCP, Agent Skills, AGENTS.md, ACP, so MCP servers, skills and repo instructions you set up carry over if you switch.

In their own words

Gemini CLI

Google's open-source terminal agent for Gemini models, with MCP servers, extensions, Skills and AGENTS.md support.

WebsiteMCP docs

Cursor

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

WebsiteMCP docs

FAQ

Is Gemini CLI or Cursor open source?
Gemini CLI is open source under Apache-2.0. Cursor is proprietary.
Do Gemini CLI and Cursor support MCP servers?
Gemini CLI: yes. Cursor: yes.
Can I reuse Agent Skills between Gemini CLI and Cursor?
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 Gemini CLIMCP install guide for CursorAll official MCP servers

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Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.