What it does
Claurst is an AI pair programmer that runs in your terminal (a text-based window for typing commands). It reads your project, writes and edits code, and runs commands with your approval.
It started as a 'clean-room' rebuild of how Claude Code behaves, written from a description rather than copied code, and has grown into its own tool. It works with several AI providers and adds plugins, memory, chat branching and a built-in companion.
Its makers say it is fast and has no tracking or telemetry. On macOS, the commands it runs are kept in a sandbox (a walled-off area). The README says it is in beta, and some features are marked experimental.
Who it's for
Programmers who want a fast, open terminal coding agent that is not tied to one AI company.
Can I use it without coding?
With some setup. A one-line installer or download sets it up, but it is a terminal tool meant for people who code. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- Free, but needs an AI accountThe software is free, but it uses an online AI service (like OpenAI or Anthropic), which usually charges for use.
- Runs on
- Mac, Windows, Linux
- Computer
- An ordinary computer is fine
- Privacy
- Sends what you give it to an online service
- API key
- Not needed
Try it
- Run the one-line installer for your system, or download the program from the project's releases page.
- Add an API key for your AI provider, or sign in with a ChatGPT subscription.
- Open a terminal in your project folder and start Claurst.
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page or the official download page above. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- License (GPL-3.0): Free to use; if you share a changed version, you must share your source code too.
- What you type or upload is sent to an online service. Avoid sharing private or sensitive information.
- More on staying safe