Free-plan details checked against each provider's official pricing pages on October 9, 2026. This guide is based on that research, not on long-term hands-on testing. Limits change often, so check the linked official page before you rely on a specific number.
AI coding assistants can explain error messages, suggest the next line of code, and even build small features for you. For beginners they're like a patient tutor available at any hour. Several good ones have free plans. Here's what each includes, and how to use them so you actually learn to code rather than just copy.
Quick comparison
| Tool | Where it works | Free plan (official wording) |
|---|---|---|
| GitHub Copilot Free | VS Code and other editors, GitHub | 2,000 completions and 50 chat requests per month |
| Google Antigravity | Google's AI coding app | Unlimited Tab completions, "basic weekly rate limits" on agent use |
| Cursor (Hobby) | Cursor editor | "Limited Agent requests", no card required |
| Free AI chatbots | Browser or app | Depends on the chatbot |
1. GitHub Copilot Free
GitHub Copilot is the best-known coding assistant, and its free plan is a great starting point. GitHub's FAQ says Copilot Free users get 2,000 code completions and 50 chat requests per month. The plan also includes agent mode and the command-line tool, with a choice of AI models from several companies.
- Students and teachers: GitHub's plans page mentions Pro access for verified students and faculty, so check GitHub Education if you qualify.
- Paid option: Copilot Pro is $10/month.
Official page: GitHub Copilot plans
2. Google Antigravity
Google's free coding tool is now Antigravity. According to Google, the free Gemini Code Assist for individuals and Gemini CLI were replaced by Antigravity and Antigravity CLI on June 18, 2026. The $0 plan includes access to a variety of agent models, unlimited Tab completions and unlimited Command requests, with "basic weekly rate limits" on the heavier agent features.
- Note: Google doesn't list the exact weekly limits on the pricing page.
- More usage: higher limits come with Google AI Pro or Ultra subscriptions.
Official pages: Antigravity pricing · Gemini Code Assist
3. Cursor (Hobby plan)
Cursor is a code editor with AI built into every part of it. Its Hobby plan is free with no credit card required, and includes limited agent requests and access to Composer. Cursor doesn't publish the exact free limits on its pricing page.
- Paid option: Pro is $20/month.
Official page: Cursor pricing
4. Free AI chatbots
You don't need a special tool to get coding help. ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude and Copilot all explain code well on their free plans, and Claude's free plan can even run code for you. Paste your code and the error message, and ask what's wrong.
Compare them in our guide to the best free AI chatbots.
How beginners should use AI for coding
It's easy to let AI write everything and learn nothing. These habits keep you learning:
- Ask for explanations, not just answers. "Explain this error like I'm a beginner, then give me a hint, not the full fix."
- Type the code yourself instead of pasting it. You'll remember it.
- Read every suggestion. AI code can have bugs or security problems. Don't run code you don't understand.
- Never paste secrets such as passwords or API keys into a prompt.
- Follow a real course alongside AI help, such as freeCodeCamp's free certifications (see our guide to free online learning).
Which one should you start with?
- Using VS Code: GitHub Copilot Free.
- Want generous completions: Google Antigravity.
- Want an AI-first editor: Cursor Hobby.
- Just need an explanation: any free chatbot.
Spotted a change in one of these free plans? Let us know through our Contact page.
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