Start with one real task
Choose a small change you already understand: a bug fix, a form validation rule or a clearly scoped interface update. Record the expected behaviour and the commands that will verify it. Use a separate branch and exclude secrets and live customer data.
Compare the whole workflow
| Criterion | What to check |
|---|---|
| Project context | Does the tool find the relevant code and follow the repository's conventions? |
| Editor or terminal | Can you inspect changes, run commands and resume work comfortably in your chosen environment? |
| Permissions | Can you see which operations need approval and limit the tool's access? |
| Change review | Is the diff small enough to understand? Does it include unrelated edits? |
| Verification | Do the agreed tests and browser checks pass? Are remaining limitations reported clearly? |
| Operating cost | Check the current plan and usage limits, then record the cost of your own trial. |
Measure the work you still need to do
Record time spent explaining the task, reviewing the diff, correcting mistakes and validating the result. A fast first response alone does not establish a faster delivery process.
Repeat the exercise on a few representative tasks. Keep the prompts, environment, tool versions and results together so you can compare the trials. This article provides a method, not a measured ranking of the tools.
Make the decision from your constraints
Choose the workflow that fits your team's review habits, repository and access requirements. The tool does not replace acceptance criteria or responsibility for the released change.
