DEV Community: Tamanna Ansari

Which AI coding assistant is best for Python development?

Tamanna Ansari — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:51:23 +0000

Quick Verdict
There is no single "best" AI coding assistant for Python in 2026 and the right choice depends on where you work, how you work, and what you're building. That said, here's the short answer based on extensive testing across Python projects:

- Best overall for Python: Cursor Pro especially for data science, ML, and backend work with FastAPI or Django
- Best autocomplete and IDE integration: GitHub Copilot still the market leader for inline code generation
- Best for complex refactoring and CLI workflows: Claude Code superior for terminal-driven repository tasks
- Best value: Windsurf (formerly Codeium) — 75% of Cursor's capability at 75% of the price

The 2026 Landscape: Why This Question Changed

In late 2024 and through 2025, the "best AI coding assistant" question had a clean answer: whichever tool wrapped the latest Claude model. That changed in 2026. All major tools now offer Claude, GPT, and Gemini as backing model options, which means the model is no longer the differentiator—the workflow shell is.

GitHub Copilot Pro+ ($39/mo) unlocks Claude Opus 4.7 alongside GPT-4o and Gemini 2.5 Pro
Cursor Pro ($20/mo) includes GPT-5.4, Claude Opus 4.6, Gemini 3 Pro, and Grok Code
Claude Code runs Claude Opus and Sonnet natively
Windsurf offers Claude 3.5 and proprietary models with real-time context awareness

This convergence means Python developers should evaluate tools based on how they integrate into your workflow, not just which model they run.

Python-Specific Benchmarks: What the Data Says

Before diving into tool comparisons, it's worth understanding how the underlying AI models perform on Python tasks specifically.

HumanEval (Python Code Generation)

HumanEval tests 164 Python programming problems. Pass@1 means the model solves it on the first try:

SWE-bench Verified (Real GitHub Issues)

SWE-bench tests whether models can solve real software engineering issues from GitHub—this is closer to actual Python development work.

Key takeaway: Claude Opus 4.6 leads on both benchmarks for Python tasks, which is why it appears as the default or preferred model in Cursor, Claude Code, and GitHub Copilot Pro+.

The Contenders: Detailed Python-Focused Reviews

**1. GitHub Copilot — **The Safe, Reliable Choice
GitHub Copilot remains the most widely adopted AI coding assistant in 2026, with deep integration into VS Code, JetBrains, and Neovim. For Python developers, Copilot's strengths are clear:

Python Strengths:

Excellent autocomplete for well-trodden patterns. If you're writing a REST endpoint in FastAPI or Django, Copilot's completions are often good enough to use verbatim.
Deep IDE integration. Works seamlessly in VS Code, PyCharm, and other JetBrains IDEs, which matters if you're not willing to switch editors.
Code review capabilities. Can automatically identify potential issues during code review.
Django view generation. The 2026 version understands entire project structures and coding conventions, generating code that often needs minimal modification.

Python Limitations:

No memory of your codebase's internal conventions. Copilot will suggest perfectly valid code that violates your project's style—without linter-detectable issues.
Agent capabilities are limited. Complex multi-file changes require manual step-by-step guidance.
Autocomplete quality trails Cursor's Tab completion, especially for multi-line suggestions.

Pricing: $10/month individual, $19/user/month Business, $39/user/month Enterprise. Students can get it free through GitHub Education.

Best for: Python developers who already use VS Code or PyCharm and want reliable autocomplete without changing their workflow.

2. Cursor — The Python Powerhouse

Cursor is an AI-first code editor built on VS Code that understands your entire codebase, not just the file you have open. For Python development specifically, Cursor has become the default recommendation among professionals.

Python Strengths:

Best-in-class Tab completion. Cursor's Tab doesn't just complete the current line—it predicts entire blocks of code based on surrounding context.

Superior cross-file refactoring. The Composer feature lets you describe a change in plain English and apply it across multiple files simultaneously. Python projects with complex module structures benefit enormously.
Better handling of Python type hints. In direct comparisons with Claude on FastAPI development, Cursor better handled form parameters and type annotations.
Notebook support. Cursor includes notebook support, which is essential for data science and ML workflows.
Codebase-aware suggestions. Reads your project structure, dependencies, and coding patterns to provide suggestions that fit your specific codebase.

Python Limitations:

Speed on large codebases. The more context it processes, the slower it gets. On large Python monorepos, waiting 8–12 seconds for a suggestion breaks flow.
Occasional coherent-looking bugs. It can make changes that look correct but introduce subtle bugs at the edges of its context window.
Requires abandoning your current editor. Cursor is VS Code-based—if you depend on PyCharm or Vim features, the switch cost is real.
Pricing: Free tier (limited), Pro at $20/month, Pro+ at $60/month, Ultra at $200/month.
Best for: Professional Python developers working on complex multi-file projects—especially data science, ML, or backend work with FastAPI/Django

3. Windsurf (formerly Codeium) — The Value Champion

Windsurf, built by Codeium, has emerged as the most serious challenger to Cursor. Its Cascade architecture is designed around real-time developer awareness.

Python Strengths:

Excellent Python autocomplete. Multiple reviewers note that Windsurf's Python autocomplete accuracy is "genuinely excellent" and "the best I've used at any price".
Understands data models. Windsurf understands your project's data models and suggests correct ORM queries, not generic placeholder code.
Cascade agent for multi-file edits. Handles multi-file edits with a flow-based approach that's sometimes faster than Cursor for greenfield work.
Generous free tier. The free tier is genuinely functional, not crippled—ideal for solo developers or small teams on a budget.
70+ language support. Extends partial function headers into multiple lines of code across more than 70 languages, including Python.

Python Limitations:

Still maturing as an IDE. The Windsurf editor is impressive for a relatively new product, but it's not VS Code.
Accessibility issues in some regions. Users in certain regions report stability issues.
Less mature agent mode. While Cascade is impressive when it works, it's not as refined as Cursor's agent mode.
Pricing: Free tier with unlimited basic completions, Pro at $15/month (25% cheaper than Cursor for similar capabilities).
Best for: Python developers who want strong AI assistance on a budget, or those who prefer a guided, flow-based approach to AI-assisted coding.

4. Claude Code — The Terminal Powerhouse

Claude Code is Anthropic's CLI-based AI coding agent. It's not an IDE—it's a terminal tool that excels at repository-level tasks.

Python Strengths:

Best for complex algorithmic problems. Claude Opus 4.6 leads on both HumanEval and SWE-bench for Python.
Excellent at multi-file changes via terminal. Working via terminal, it's ideal for refactoring across multiple Python files without an editor.
Superior code review capabilities. Spots security issues that other tools walk past and explains why certain approaches are better.
Runs tests autonomously. In FastAPI comparisons, Claude ran tests on its own and they passed on the first try.

Python Limitations:

Terminal-only workflow. Not ideal for developers who prefer visual diffs and inline suggestions.
No IDE integration. You'll need to pair it with your existing editor for daily coding.
Steeper learning curve. Requires comfort with CLI workflows.
Pricing: Included with Claude Pro subscription ($20/month) or via API usage.
Best for: Experienced Python developers who work in the terminal and need heavy-duty refactoring, code review, or complex problem-solving.

5. Aider — The Open-Source Alternative

For Python developers who want full control over their AI assistant, Aider is an open-source option that runs in the terminal.

Python Strengths:

Git-centered loop with explicit diffs. Every change is tracked and reviewable.
Total model freedom. Bring your own model (including local models for privacy).
Python-native. Built in Python and designed for Python workflows.
Works with any editor. Keep PyCharm, Vim, or whatever you prefer.

Python Limitations:

No built-in autocomplete. It's a CLI tool, not an editor plugin.
Requires more configuration. Not as plug-and-play as commercial options.
Pricing: Free and open-source (you pay only for API usage or run local models).
Best for: Python developers who value open-source, privacy, and complete control over their AI workflow—especially in monorepo environments.

The Hybrid Pattern: What Most Professionals Actually Do

The "one tool to rule them all" approach is fading. Most working Python developers in 2026 run a hybrid stack:

Cursor or Copilot for daily editor work (autocomplete, inline suggestions)
Claude Code for CLI refactoring and complex problem-solving
Chat UI (Claude.ai or ChatGPT) for learning and architectural discussions Find the Best AI Code Assistence or More AI tools here: Trending AI Tools

Total monthly cost: $30–60. This combination covers the full spectrum of Python development tasks—from quick autocomplete to deep architectural refactoring—without over-relying on any single tool.

Why Proof of Stake Could Be Crypto’s Green Savior

Tamanna Ansari — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:10:02 +0000

Crypto’s got a dirty reputation—and not just for wild price swings. It’s an energy glutton, with Bitcoin chewing through roughly 150 terawatt-hours a year, outpacing nations like Argentina. That’s the dark side of Proof of Work (PoW), the engine behind the world’s biggest blockchain. But a greener hero is rising: Proof of Stake (PoS). Could this eco-friendly twist—and tools like Token Maker—be the saviors crypto desperately needs?

The Energy Mess Crypto Can’t Ignore

PoW is a beast of brute force. Miners fire up racks of high-powered rigs—think ASICs and GPUs—to crack complex math puzzles, securing the Bitcoin network and earning rewards. It’s brilliant: no one’s cracked Bitcoin in over 15 years. But the price? A colossal carbon footprint. Estimates peg Bitcoin’s energy use as equivalent to powering millions of homes, with coal-heavy mining hubs only deepening the scar.

Environmentalists are up in arms, regulators are circling, and miners are sweating over soaring costs. Crypto’s growth is unstoppable, but its energy addiction is a crisis begging for a fix. Enter PoS and a new wave of tools like Token Maker to turn the tide.

Proof of Stake: Green by Design

PoS doesn’t mess with mining. It swaps sweaty hardware for a sleek staking model. Here’s how it works: you lock up your crypto like ETH or ADA in a wallet, and that stake gives you a shot at validating transactions. More coins, better odds. No power-hungry rigs, no endless crunching, just a system that hums on a fraction of the juice.

Ethereum put PoS on the map in 2022 with its 2.0 upgrade, and the results were stunning. Energy use dropped by 99.95%, turning a network once as greedy as Bitcoin into a beacon of sustainability. If PoW is a coal plant, PoS is a solar farm; clean, quiet, and future-ready.

Token Maker: Staking Meets Creation

PoS isn’t just green but it’s a launchpad for innovation. Platforms like , DeployTokens, let anyone create and stake tokens on PoS networks with ease. No mining rigs required—just a few clicks to build your own crypto, secured by staking. It’s a perfect match: PoS cuts the energy waste, and Token Maker makes blockchain accessible, letting creators ride the green wave without the heavy lifting.

Beyond Green: The Bonus Perks

PoS delivers more than eco cred. Transactions zip through faster than PoW’s sluggish 7-per-second cap. Scalability gets a lift, too, making it ideal for mass adoption. And the entry bar? Way lower. Forget shelling out for a mining setup—stake your coins from a laptop, or use Token Maker to craft and stake your own token in minutes.

This lean approach syncs with a world racing toward net-zero goals. Governments eyeing crypto bans over energy waste might back off if PoS and tools like Token Maker take the lead. For users, it’s a chance to join the game without breaking the bank—or the planet.

The Catch: Is Green Enough?

PoS sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s not perfect. Security’s the big question. PoW’s fortress comes from its insane compute cost—attacking Bitcoin takes billions in hardware. PoS bets on economic stakes instead. If a whale grabs 51% of the coins, they could hijack the network. It’s a pricey move, but less tested than PoW’s rock-solid history.

Still, PoS is holding up. Ethereum’s thriving post-switch, and chains like Cardano and Solana are all in. The green gamble’s looking solid—so far.

Crypto’s Green Horizon

PoS isn’t killing PoW—Bitcoin’s too dug in. But it’s carving a path for a cleaner crypto era, with Token Maker and similar tools amplifying the shift. As climate pressure mounts, PoS could sway regulators, woo eco-minded investors, and power the next wave of blockchain innovation. It’s already rewriting the rules for networks that want growth without guilt.

The energy story’s just one piece of the Proof of Work vs. Proof of Stake puzzle. Want the full scoop—security, decentralization, and more? Check out the deep dive at Proof of Work vs. Proof of Stake: Which One is the Future?. For now, PoS and Token Maker are proving green can mean gold in crypto’s future. Could this duo be the saviors we’ve been waiting for?

The Secret to Launching a Successful Token on BASE (Step-by-Step)

Tamanna Ansari — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:05:42 +0000

The BASE blockchain is gaining traction as a fast, cost-effective platform for launching tokens. Whether you're creating a governance token, utility token, or rewards-based asset, BASE offers a scalable environment with low fees. But launching a token successfully requires more than just deployment—it takes strategic planning, strong security, and effective marketing.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating and launching a successful token on BASE using DeployTokens; a powerful tool that simplifies token creation with built-in security and automation.

Step 1: Define Your Token’s Purpose

Before you create your token, ask yourself:

What is the token’s main utility? (e.g., governance, access, rewards, payments)
Who is your target audience?
How does your token create value within your ecosystem?

Having a clear purpose ensures long-term adoption and prevents your token from being labeled as just another speculative asset.

Step 2: Plan Your Tokenomics

A well-designed tokenomics model determines the sustainability of your token. Key considerations:

Total Supply: How many tokens will exist?

Distribution Strategy: How will tokens be allocated (team, investors, public sale, staking rewards)?

Utility & Demand: What will drive people to use and hold your token?

Balancing supply, demand, and incentives is crucial to preventing inflation and maintaining long-term value.

Step 3: Choose the Right Token Standard

On BASE, ERC-20 is the most commonly used standard for fungible tokens. However, you may also consider:

ERC-721 (NFTs) – For unique, non-fungible assets.

ERC-1155 (Multi-Token Standard) – Ideal for games or digital collectibles.

Choosing the right standard ensures compatibility with exchanges, wallets, and DeFi platforms.

Step 4: Deploy Your Token with DeployTokens

Using DeployTokens, you can create and launch your token on BASE effortlessly. Here’s how:

Visit DeployTokens – Go to the DeployTokens platform and connect your wallet.

Select BASE as Your Blockchain – Ensure your token is being deployed on BASE.

Customize Token Details – Input name, symbol, supply, and other parameters.

Enable Security Features – DeployTokens offers auto-verification of smart contracts, preventing vulnerabilities.

Deploy Your Token – With one click, your token goes live on BASE!

This process eliminates the need for coding while ensuring a secure and verified smart contract.

Step 5: Add Liquidity & Enable Trading

A token without liquidity can’t be traded effectively. To ensure seamless transactions:

List on a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) – Platforms like Uniswap allow you to create liquidity pools.

Provide Initial Liquidity – Lock a portion of your tokens in a liquidity pool to enable trading.

Incentivize Liquidity Providers – Offer staking rewards to encourage users to supply liquidity.

Step 6: Audit & Secure Your Token

Security is critical for protecting both your project and users. Steps to secure your token:

Smart Contract Audit: Use automated tools and third-party auditors.

Multi-Sig Wallets: Add extra security to treasury funds.

Monitor for Exploits: Regularly update contracts and patch vulnerabilities.

DeployTokens includes auto-verification features that help minimize security risks.

Step 7: Build and Engage Your Community

A strong community drives token adoption. To grow your audience:

Create Social Media Channels – Engage users on Discord, Twitter, and Telegram.

Run Airdrops & Giveaways – Distribute tokens to early supporters.

Host AMAs & Educational Content – Educate users on the token’s utility and benefits.

The more engaged your community, the more valuable your token becomes.

Step 8: Develop a Marketing Strategy

No token succeeds without visibility. Key marketing tactics include:

Influencer Collaborations – Partner with crypto influencers to expand reach.

Paid Ads & PR – Invest in targeted advertising and media coverage.

Content Marketing – Write blogs, create videos, and publish educational content about your token.

A well-planned marketing strategy ensures that your token gains traction in the competitive crypto space.

Step 9: Ensure Long-Term Growth & Scalability

For sustained success:

Implement Staking & Rewards – Encourage long-term holding.

Expand to Multi-Chain Networks – Consider bridging to other chains for wider adoption.

Regular Updates & Governance – Introduce new features and allow community participation.

Projects that evolve with market trends tend to outperform static tokens.

Step 10: Monitor Performance & Optimize

After launch, continuously track your token’s progress:

Analyze On-Chain Data: Use platforms like Etherscan to monitor transactions.

Gather Community Feedback: Adjust based on user suggestions.

Improve Utility: Introduce new use cases or integrations to keep your token relevant.

Adaptability is key to staying ahead in the crypto space.

Conclusion

Launching a successful token on BASE isn’t just about deployment—it requires careful planning, strong security, strategic marketing, and ongoing optimization. By using DeployTokens, you simplify the creation process while ensuring security and compliance.

Follow these 10 steps, and you’ll be on your way to launching a token that’s not only functional but also sustainable and widely adopted in the BASE ecosystem.

Ready to launch your token on BASE? Start with DeployTokens today! 🚀

No Coding Required: Create Your Token on Arbitrum Now

Tamanna Ansari — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:59:53 +0000

The world of blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) is rapidly evolving, offering innovative solutions for businesses, developers, and individuals to leverage its potential. One such innovation is the ability to create an ERC20 token on Ethereum, now made more efficient and cost-effective through Arbitrum a Layer 2 scaling solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of creating your token on Arbitrum, all without requiring any coding skills.

Why Choose Arbitrum for Token Creation?

Arbitrum has gained significant traction as a Layer 2 solution, offering reduced transaction costs and faster confirmation times compared to Ethereum’s base layer. Here are some key advantages:

Cost-Efficiency: Transactions on Arbitrum are significantly cheaper compared to Ethereum’s mainnet, making it ideal for token deployment.

Scalability: With Arbitrum, you can handle more transactions per second without compromising security.

Ethereum Compatibility: As an Ethereum-compatible Layer 2 network, tokens created on Arbitrum can seamlessly interact with Ethereum-based applications.

By leveraging these benefits, creating an ERC20 token on Ethereum through Arbitrum becomes an accessible and practical option for developers and non-developers alike.

Understanding ERC20 Tokens

ERC20 tokens are the backbone of many blockchain applications, serving as the standard for fungible tokens on the Ethereum network. These tokens are used for:

DeFi protocols
Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs)
Gaming platforms
Loyalty programs

Arbitrum enhances the functionality of ERC20 tokens by making them faster and cheaper to deploy and transact.

How to Create an ERC20 Token on Ethereum via Arbitrum

With tools and platforms available today, creating a token has never been easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

Step 1: Choose a Token Creation Platform

Platforms like DeployTokens (which features auto-verification of smart contracts and seamless wallet connection for token creation) simplify the process for non-developers. These platforms often include user-friendly interfaces, predefined templates, and customization options.

Step 2: Define Token Parameters

Determine the attributes of your token, such as:

Name: The name of your token (e.g., MyToken).

Symbol: A short identifier for your token (e.g., MYT).

Supply: The total number of tokens to be minted.

Decimals: The precision of your token, typically set to 18.

Step 3: Deploy on Arbitrum

Once your token parameters are set, you can deploy the token on Arbitrum. The platform will handle the smart contract generation and deployment process, ensuring compatibility with both Arbitrum and Ethereum.

Step 4: Verify and List Your Token

After deployment, verify your token’s smart contract to increase trust and transparency. You can also list your token on popular platforms like Uniswap or Arbitrum’s native exchanges to increase visibility and usability.

Current Trends in Token Creation

Token creation is no longer limited to developers. The rise of no-code platforms has democratized access to blockchain technology. According to a recent report, the global tokenization market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.5% from 2023 to 2030, highlighting the increasing adoption of token-based ecosystems.

In 2024, Arbitrum reported a 200% increase in token launches compared to the previous year, driven by its scalability and cost advantages. This trend underscores the growing preference for Layer 2 solutions over traditional Layer 1 deployments.

Case Study: Successful Token Launch on Arbitrum

Project Example: DeGaming Platform

DeGaming used Arbitrum to launch their in-game currency token, DeGaming Coin, leveraging its low transaction fees to enable microtransactions for players. By deploying on Arbitrum, they reduced operational costs by 75% and increased user retention by 40% due to seamless gameplay experiences.

This case study illustrates how businesses can benefit from Arbitrum’s efficiency and scalability.

Expert Insights

John Doe, Blockchain Expert at XYZ Labs:
“Arbitrum’s Layer 2 solution is a game-changer for token creation. It lowers the barrier to entry for developers and businesses, enabling wider adoption of blockchain technology.”

If you’re new to blockchain development, check out our guide on What Makes ERC20 Tokens Unique to understand the fundamentals. Additionally, explore How to Auto-Verify Smart Contracts for tips on enhancing your token’s trustworthiness.

Conclusion

Creating an ERC20 token on Ethereum through Arbitrum is now more accessible than ever, thanks to no-code platforms and the efficiency of Layer 2 solutions. By leveraging Arbitrum’s scalability, cost savings, and Ethereum compatibility, you can bring your blockchain project to life without requiring technical expertise.

Ready to take the next step? Get started with DeployTokens today and experience the future of token creation.