goose vs opencode
AI agents for coding and broader workflows compared
goose and opencode are open source AI agents that can take actions to assist with software work. goose supports coding and wider workflows through a desktop app, CLI, and API, while opencode focuses on coding with build and read-only plan agents in a terminal UI and a beta desktop app.
goose: Run an Extensible AI Agent on Your Machine
goose is a Rust-based AI agent available as a desktop app, CLI, and API. It connects to multiple LLM providers and MCP extensions, making it useful for code work as well as research, writing, automation, and data analysis.
opencode: Work with an Open Source AI Coding Agent
OpenCode is an open source AI coding agent for developers who want AI assistance in their coding workflow. It offers build and read-only plan agents, a terminal UI, and desktop apps in beta.
| goose | opencode | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Rust | TypeScript |
| License | Apache-2.0 | MIT |
| Stars | 54.9k | 212k |
| Forks | 6.4k | 28.1k |
| Last analyzed | Oct 3, 2026 | Oct 3, 2026 |
Key differences
- goose is written in Rust and licensed under Apache-2.0; opencode is written in TypeScript and licensed under MIT.
- goose targets coding, research, writing, automation, and data analysis, while opencode is focused on software development.
- goose connects to multiple model providers and MCP extensions; opencode describes build, plan, and general subagents for coding tasks.
- goose offers a desktop app, CLI, and API; opencode offers a terminal UI and a desktop app in beta.
- goose's desktop installations support macOS, Linux, and Windows; opencode's beta desktop app supports the same three platforms.
Choose goose if you…
- want an agent for coding as well as research, writing, automation, or data analysis.
- need a choice of desktop app, CLI, or API, with connections to multiple model providers and MCP extensions.
- want to connect existing Claude, ChatGPT, or Gemini subscriptions through ACP.
Choose opencode if you…
- want an agent focused on software development, with separate build and read-only plan agents.
- prefer a terminal UI and installation options such as npm, Homebrew, Scoop, or an install script.
- want to explore code with the plan agent before making changes, or try a beta desktop app.
Compare the numbers side by side, or add more projects
This comparison is generated with AI from the OSRepos analyses of both projects. Always check each project's repository and documentation before choosing.