You have four ways to work with Claude Code. Each fits different situations, and you'll likely use more than one as you get comfortable with the tool.
Terminal CLI: For command line work
The terminal version gives you the most control. You run claude from your project directory and work directly in your shell. This works best when you're already comfortable with the command line and want Claude Code to feel like any other terminal tool.
Use the CLI when you're debugging server issues, running automated scripts, or working on projects where you spend most of your time in the terminal anyway. The CLI also lets you pipe data in and out, so you can chain it with other tools or run it in CI pipelines.
The terminal version supports third party AI providers beyond Anthropic, which matters if your company has specific AI requirements or cost constraints.
VS Code extension: For IDE based development
If VS Code is your main editor, the extension keeps everything in one place. You get inline diffs, conversation history, and the ability to mention specific files with @-syntax. The extension shows you exactly what Claude Code wants to change before applying it.
This works well for feature development where you need to see changes across multiple files, or when you're working in codebases with complex file structures. The visual diff makes it easier to review what Claude Code is doing before you accept the changes.
Like the CLI, the VS Code extension supports third party AI providers.
Desktop app: For visual project management
The desktop app gives you a dedicated workspace for Claude Code. You can run multiple sessions simultaneously, schedule recurring tasks, and review changes with a clean visual interface. This version requires a paid Claude subscription.
Use the desktop app when you're managing several projects, want to schedule automated tasks like dependency updates, or prefer working in a dedicated environment rather than switching between your terminal and editor. Scheduled tasks in the desktop app run locally on your machine.
Web interface: For remote and mobile work
The web version runs in any desktop browser and is also available on the Claude iOS app. Tasks run on Anthropic's servers, so you can start something and check back later without keeping your computer running.
This is useful for quick fixes when you're away from your development machine, collaborative debugging with teammates, or long running tasks that you don't want tying up your local environment.
Pick based on your workflow
Most developers end up using two interfaces regularly. Common combinations are CLI plus VS Code extension for different types of tasks, or desktop app plus web interface for switching between local and remote work.
Start with whichever matches how you work now. If you live in VS Code, get the extension. If you prefer terminal tools, install the CLI. If you want the most features and don't mind paying, try the desktop app.
You can always install others later. All versions connect to the same Claude Code engine, so your project settings and instructions work across all of them.