Comparison

OpenClaw 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.

OpenClawRoo Code
MakerOpenClaw communityRoo Code
LicenseOpen sourceApache-2.0
ModelsSee vendor docsSee vendor docs
Runs inLocal, MessagingIDE
MCP?MCP: not yet verifiedMCP: supported
Agent SkillsAgent Skills: supportedAgent Skills: supported
AGENTS.md?AGENTS.md: not yet verifiedAGENTS.md: supported
ACPACP: supported?ACP: not yet verified

Key differences

  • Both are open source, so you can inspect and self-host either.
  • OpenClaw also runs in Local, Messaging; Roo Code also runs in IDE.
  • Roo Code supports MCP; we have not verified it for OpenClaw.
  • Roo Code supports AGENTS.md; we have not verified it for OpenClaw.
  • OpenClaw supports ACP; we have not verified it for Roo Code.
  • Both support Agent Skills, so MCP servers, skills and repo instructions you set up carry over if you switch.

In their own words

OpenClaw

Open-source personal assistant that runs locally and lives in the messaging apps you already use, with cron jobs, plugins and approvals.

Website

Roo Code

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

Website

FAQ

Is OpenClaw or Roo Code open source?
OpenClaw is open source. Roo Code is open source under Apache-2.0.
Do OpenClaw and Roo Code support MCP servers?
OpenClaw: not verified yet. Roo Code: yes.
Can I reuse Agent Skills between OpenClaw 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

All official MCP servers

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Reviewed Oct 5, 2026.