Kilo CLI
FreeMulti-mode agent with a unified gateway to 500+ models.
FreeFree tier
Inputs: text, codeOutputs: code, text
About Kilo CLI
Kilo CLI is an open-source, multi-mode agentic coding assistant that runs directly in your terminal. It provides a unified gateway to 500+ AI models—including frontier, open-weight, and your own API keys—with zero markup on token usage. Features include sandboxed auto mode for safe execution, the ability to run multiple specialized agents in parallel, native and custom modes (planning, coding, debugging, reviewing), and worktree management via the Kilo Console. Built on the MIT-licensed OpenCode foundation, Kilo CLI integrates deeply with the Kilo platform (VS Code, JetBrains, Cloud Agents, Teams, Slack) and is free to use with pay-as-you-go AI inference.
Key Features
Access 500+ AI models (frontier, open-weight, or bring your own keys)
Full BYOK (Bring Your Own Keys) support with zero lock-in
Sandboxed auto mode via /sandbox command to confine agent execution
Run multiple specialized agents in parallel from one terminal
Native and custom modes for planning, coding, debugging, and reviewing
Worktree management in Kilo Console (beta)
Built on MIT-licensed OpenCode foundation with active community
Integrates with VS Code, JetBrains, Cloud Agents, Slack, and mobile apps
One-click deployments directly from the CLI
Agent Manager for multi-agent orchestration
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fully open source under MIT license
- No markup on AI token usage; pay exact provider rates
- Supports 500+ models from 60+ providers
- Sandboxed execution protects host system and git history
- Parallel agents increase productivity without opening extra tools
- Extensible with custom modes and skills
- Deep integration with popular IDEs and the Kilo platform
- Active development with weekly major feature releases
Cons
- Requires a Kilo account or third-party API keys for most AI model access
- Inference costs can vary depending on model choice and usage
- Sandboxing features are still evolving (beta)
- Some advanced features (e.g., Cloud Agents, Teams) are part of the broader Kilo platform, not purely CLI
- Learning curve for users new to agent-based workflows
Best For
AI-powered coding and debugging from the terminalAutomated code review and pull request analysisRunning long-running, resource-intensive AI tasks in the cloudTeam collaboration with shared agent modes and centralized billingEnterprise development with SSO, audit logs, and compliance controlsRapid prototyping and one-click deployment of applicationsParallel experimentation with different AI models and workflows
FAQ
How do I install the Kilo CLI?
Install globally using npm: npm install -g @kilocode/cli. Then authenticate with your Kilo account or add your own API keys.
What AI models can I use with Kilo CLI?
Kilo CLI provides access to 500+ models from over 60 providers, including frontier models (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic), open-weight models, and free models via the Kilo Gateway. You can also bring your own API keys.
Can I use my own API keys?
Yes, Kilo CLI supports full BYOK (Bring Your Own Keys). You can add keys for Anthropic, OpenAI, Google, Azure, AWS Bedrock, and other providers, and use them without any markup.
Does Kilo CLI support sandboxing?
Yes, Kilo CLI has a /sandbox command that confines agent tool execution to the workspace, keeps .git read-only, and can optionally block network access to unapproved hosts.
What's the difference between Kilo CLI and the VS Code extension?
Kilo CLI is a terminal-first agent focused on command-line workflows, while the VS Code extension provides an in-editor experience. Both share the same underlying platform and can be used together. Kilo CLI also supports sandboxed auto mode and parallel agents.
Is Kilo Code really free?
Kilo Code (including the CLI) is free and open source. You only pay for AI inference if you use the Kilo Gateway (pay-as-you-go) or Kilo Pass (subscription with bonus credits). You can also use free models, bring your own keys, or run local models at no cost to Kilo.