Quick answer
Cursor meters a shared pool and bills other providers' models at API rates once the pool is used. Claude Code gives a flat-price allowance in five-hour and weekly windows. Both have tiers around $20, $100, and $200, so the cheaper one depends on how and where you use Claude models.
How each one meters
| Cursor | Claude Code | |
|---|---|---|
| Allowance | Weekly pool on new plans, monthly on legacy | Five-hour and weekly windows |
| Claude models | Billed at API rates from credit on new plans | Included in the plan |
| Past the allowance | Prepaid credit or on-demand usage | Usage credits at API rates |
| Entry price | $8 Plus on new plans | $20 Pro |
How to choose
If most of your work runs on Claude models, Claude Code's flat plan usually stretches further than paying API rates inside Cursor. If you lean on Cursor's own models and tab completion, Cursor's pool may be enough. Many people pay for both and use each for what it does best.
Track both for a week
UsageAtlas shows Cursor and Claude Code on one screen, with Claude Code tokens priced at list rates. A week of both tells you more than any pricing page.
Questions, answered
Is Cursor cheaper than Claude Code?
It depends on the models you use. Claude models cost API rates in Cursor's new plans but are included in a Claude plan.
Can I use Claude Code inside Cursor?
Yes. Claude Code runs in Cursor's terminal and uses your Claude plan, not Cursor's pool.
Can one tool track both?
Yes. UsageAtlas shows Cursor usage and Claude Code limits side by side.