← Use cases · Coding

AI agents for switching models in your coding agent

Short answer: Cline, OpenCode, Kilo Code and goose let you pick the model provider. Note that Cline 4.1.24 changed its default model, so check your selection after updating.

Tools for this job

#ToolWhy for this jobAgentPick ScoreLink
#1OpenCodeBring your own model, terminal99/100Official source ↗
#2ClineMany providers; default model changed in 4.1.2492/100Official source ↗
#3gooseModel-agnostic local agent92/100Official source ↗
#4Kilo CodeChoose your model in VS Code90/100Official source ↗

Ordered by AgentPick Score. Links may become affiliate links; they never change order. Disclosure.

How to do it

  1. Pin the model explicitly instead of using defaults.
  2. Use a cheaper model for simple edits.
  3. Keep the strongest model for planning.
  4. Compare cost per task over a week.

Starter prompt

Use [cheap model] for this edit: [task]. If you're not confident, stop and say so instead of guessing.
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