Roo Code is an open-source VS Code extension that lets you use any AI model with your own API keys. Unlike locked ecosystems, you can customize different modes for debugging, architecture, and prototyping while keeping full control.
The story
I’ve been into coding assistants for about 2.5 years now. I wasn’t impressed at first but I’m an optimist, so was patient..
Oh and I have been coding professionally for 30 years and before that since 14.
Here’s the thing most people don’t realize about AI coding tools – they’re often locked into specific ecosystems or want to charge you monthly plus whatever amount you go over their quotas. Roo Code flips that script.
It’s an open-source VS Code extension that gives you flexibility in how you work. You bring your own API key(s) and choose from models like OpenAI’s GPT, Claude, Gemini, GLM, and more.
But here’s what really sold me – the customization. Unlike other assistants that force you into their workflow, Roo Code adapts to yours. You can set up different modes for different tasks. I have one configuration for debugging, others for architecture, orchestration, github use, testing, documentation writing, and more. Each uses different AI models optimized for that specific job.
The real magic happens when you’re deep in a coding session. You can communicate in natural language to perform tasks like reading and writing files, executing terminal commands, and automating processes.
What surprised me most was how it handles the messy parts of development – those experimental phases where you’re building something unconventional. Traditional tools often stumble here because they’re trained on common patterns. Roo Code’s open-source nature means you can fine-tune its behavior to fit your specific needs.
The extension includes useful capabilities like pull request summary generation, checkpoint systems that let you rollback changes when needed, and the ability to create custom modes with specific instructions and tool access.
For developers who want AI assistance with full transparency and control over their workflow, Roo Code hits that sweet spot perfectly.
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