Which is cheaper, Windsurf or Z.AI GLM?

Z.AI GLM is 1.1x cheaper than Windsurf. Windsurf starts at $0/mo, Z.AI GLM starts at $18/mo.

Does Windsurf have a free tier?

Yes, Windsurf offers a free tier with .

Windsurf has drop-in switching cost. Z.AI GLM has drop-in switching cost. Both have similar switching complexity.

Ai Coding

Windsurf

AI-powered IDE (formerly Codeium) with agentic coding, tab completions, and premium model access

Switching Cost: drop-in

Z.AI GLM

← More affordable

Zhipu AI's GLM models with tiered coding subscriptions for AI-assisted development and code generation

Switching Cost: drop-in

The free tier advantage goes to Windsurf, which offers a no-cost entry point that Z.AI GLM lacks.

Windsurf stands out for teams needing a free tier — zero upfront costs for prototyping and testing is a genuine advantage.

Windsurf stands out for teams needing a free tier — zero upfront costs for prototyping and testing is a genuine advantage.

Price Difference

1.1x

Z.AI GLM is cheaper by $2/mo

Free Tier

Windsurf

Has a free tier option