Cursor
Cursor is an AI-powered code editor built on VSCode, offering inline completions, chat-based coding assistance, and codebase-aware AI features.
Overview
Company: Anysphere (San Francisco) Founded: 2022 Funding: $60M+ (Series A, Andreessen Horowitz) Pricing: Free tier, Pro at $20/mo, Business at $40/user/mo
Why They’re Not a Direct Competitor
Cursor is a tool you sit in front of. SmartBoxes work while you sleep.
| Cursor | SmartBoxes | |
|---|---|---|
| Model | IDE with AI assistance | Autonomous agent sandbox |
| Session | Ends when you close it | Runs continuously |
| User | Developer at keyboard | Anyone with an idea |
| Output | Code you then deploy | Running application |
The Core Difference
Cursor makes developers faster. SmartBoxes replace the need for a developer.
A Cursor user opens the editor, writes prompts, reviews suggestions, commits code, and deploys manually. They’re driving; AI is assisting.
A SmartBoxes user describes what they want, then checks back later. The agent writes code, tests it, deploys it, monitors it, and iterates. The agent is driving; the human approves.
When They’d Pick Cursor
- Professional developer who wants control
- Complex codebase requiring human judgment
- Prefers local development environment
- Already has deployment infrastructure
When They’d Pick SmartBoxes
- Non-developer who wants a working tool
- Simple automation or internal app
- Wants “set and forget” operation
- No DevOps knowledge or interest
Threat Level: Low
Cursor is not moving toward autonomous agents—they’re doubling down on developer productivity. Different product philosophy, different customer.