Void

What is Void?

Void is an open source alternative to Cursor, built as a fork of VS Code. It allows developers to write code with AI assistance while maintaining full control over their data and choice of language models.

Top Features:

• Model flexibility: connect directly to any LLM including open source and frontier models without intermediaries.
• Tab autocomplete: quick code suggestions applied with a simple tab press for faster development.
• Agent and Gather modes: intelligent assistants that can search, modify files, and access terminal commands.
• VS Code foundation: transfer your existing themes, keybinds, and settings in a single click.
• Private LLM support: host your own models like DeepSeek, Llama, Gemini, and Qwen locally.

Use Cases:

• Private development: code with AI assistance without sharing sensitive data with third parties.
• Custom workflow creation: tailor your AI coding assistant to your specific development needs.
• Large codebase navigation: use Agent mode to search and understand complex projects efficiently.
• Learning programming: get contextual help and explanations while maintaining control of your learning.

Who Can Use Void?

• Privacy-focused developers: coders who want AI assistance without data privacy concerns.
• Open source contributors: developers who value transparency and community-driven tools.
• AI enthusiasts: users who want to experiment with different language models for coding.
• VS Code users: programmers already familiar with the VS Code environment and workflow.

Pricing

• Free: Open source AI code editor, download from GitHub or Beta.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Complete data control: no third-party backend handling your code or prompts.
• Model flexibility: use any LLM including local options to avoid API costs.
• VS Code compatibility: familiar environment with all your favorite extensions and settings.
• Advanced AI features: checkpoints, error detection, and tool use built right in.

Cons:

• Beta status: still under development with potential for bugs or incomplete features.
• Technical setup: configuring local LLMs requires some technical knowledge.
• Resource requirements: running local models demands significant computing resources.
• Learning curve: new AI features may take time to master effectively.

FAQs:

1) How is Void different from Cursor?

Void connects directly to LLMs without sending data through a private backend, giving you complete control over your data and model selection.

2) Can I use Void without internet connection?

Yes, by setting up local LLMs, you can use Void's AI features completely offline.

3) Will my existing VS Code extensions work with Void?

Most VS Code extensions work seamlessly with Void since it's a direct fork of VS Code.

4) What hardware do I need to run local LLMs?

Requirements vary by model, but generally a good GPU with 8+ GB VRAM is recommended for decent performance.

5) Is Void completely free to use?

Void itself is free and open source, though using certain frontier LLMs may require paid API credits.