Comparison

Gemini CLI vs goose

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

Gemini CLIgoose
MakerGoogleBlock, now at the Agentic AI Foundation
LicenseApache-2.0Apache-2.0
ModelsGoogle Gemini modelsMany providers, including local models
Runs inTerminalDesktop, Terminal, API
MCPMCP: supportedMCP: supported
Agent SkillsAgent Skills: supportedAgent Skills: supported
AGENTS.mdAGENTS.md: supportedAGENTS.md: supported
ACPACP: supportedACP: supported

Key differences

  • Both are open source (Apache-2.0 and Apache-2.0), so you can inspect and self-host either.
  • Models: Gemini CLI runs Google Gemini models; goose runs Many providers, including local models.
  • goose also runs in Desktop, API.
  • 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

goose

Open-source, extensible agent with desktop app, CLI and API. Its extensions are MCP servers. A founding project of the Linux Foundation's Agentic AI Foundation.

WebsiteMCP docs

FAQ

Is Gemini CLI or goose open source?
Gemini CLI is open source under Apache-2.0. goose is open source under Apache-2.0.
Do Gemini CLI and goose support MCP servers?
Gemini CLI: yes. goose: yes.
Can I reuse Agent Skills between Gemini CLI and goose?
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 CLIAll official MCP servers

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Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.