How boxes.dev compares
boxes.dev runs Claude Code and Codex on cloud machines, each one a copy of the development environment you prepared. Other tools take different approaches: some run their own agent, some run agents on your own computer, and some run them in cloud sandboxes built from setup scripts. The right one depends on which agent you want, where the work should run, and whether your app needs more than a repository checkout.
Cloud agents from the model labs
Platforms with their own agent
Cloud agent platforms
Parallel agent workbenches
How to choose
These four questions narrow the field quickly.
Which agent do you want to use?
boxes.dev runs the native Claude Code and Codex, signed in with your Claude or ChatGPT plan or with an API key. Some tools run their own agent instead, and some let you pick from several agent families.
Where should the work run?
Tools that run agents on your own computer need that computer to stay awake, and parallel tasks share its resources. Cloud tools keep agents working with your laptop closed. boxes.dev gives each task its own cloud Linux machine, a devbox, with its own files, processes, ports, and data.
Does your app need more than a repository checkout?
If your app depends on databases, background services, or setup steps that live outside the repository, look at how each tool builds its environment. Every boxes.dev devbox starts from a snapshot of your project's Template box, so the tools, files, and local data you prepared are already in place.
Do you want to check on agents from your phone?
The boxes.dev iOS and Android apps can read and reply to threads, inspect files, and open a shell on a devbox, so you can keep work moving away from your desk.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a devbox and a Git worktree?
A Git worktree is another checkout of your repository on the same computer. Worktrees share that computer's ports, databases, and installed tools, so two tasks that each run the app need to avoid colliding. A devbox is a separate cloud machine made from your Template box's snapshot, so each task can run the whole app on its usual ports with its own copy of the data.
Can I use boxes.dev with the Claude or ChatGPT plan I already pay for?
Yes. Connect Claude Code with your Claude login and Codex with your ChatGPT login, or give either agent an API key. Model usage stays with Anthropic or OpenAI, and your boxes.dev plan covers the cloud machines. See Connect Codex and Claude.
Does boxes.dev have its own agent?
No. boxes.dev runs Claude Code and Codex as their makers ship them. The same conversation works in the desktop workbench, in the agent's own terminal UI, and on your phone.
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