3 min read
AI tools I use to build

I keep switching tools. The space moves fast and what works best changes every few months. This is a running log of what I’m using, what I’ve tried, and what I’m watching. Latest on top.


Apr 2026 β€” now

Main tools: Codex, Claude

  • Codex β€” hard and challenging features, plus implementation work.
  • Claude β€” multi-session workflows.
  • OpenClaw - personal assitant
  • Antigravity - reading code

Currently testing:

  • Hermes Agent - using on a raspberry pi
  • Oh My Codex - codex with superpowers

On the radar: Conductor, Pi Agent

  • Conductor β€” investigating where it fits.
  • Pi Agent β€” investigating where it fits.

Mar 2026

Main tools: Claude Code, Codex, Antigravity

  • Codex β€” deep implementation, finding bugs, clean UI work. Smooth worktree integration for juggling multiple tasks. Also using it for PR reviews.
  • Claude Code β€” terminal-first coding sessions.
  • Antigravity β€” manual reading and editing files when I want more control.
  • OpenClaw β€” runs on a Raspberry Pi, used through WhatsApp for automation and edits on the go. Things like migrating a Next.js app or spinning up a quick app for a specific need.

Jan 2026 β€” Mar 2026

Main tools: Antigravity

  • Antigravity β€” Plan Mode and PR workflow. Felt like the most complete integration at the time β€” planning, implementing, and reviewing all in one place.

Started noticing Codex was better for harder, more complex tasks though.


Oct 2025 β€” Jan 2026

Main tools: Cline (VS Code), Gemini, ChatGPT

  • Cline (VS Code) β€” Plan-then-Act mode. Used Grok through Cline because it was free and fast.
  • Gemini β€” used for PRDs.
  • ChatGPT β€” general purpose, quick questions.

By the end of this period I wanted something more integrated. That’s what pulled me toward Antigravity.


Also tried at some point

Amp, OpenCode β€” haven’t spent enough time with either yet, but their architecture looks interesting. Want to go deeper.

Watching

Pi, Minions (Stripe) β€” curious about both, haven’t gone deep yet.