What it does
TRAE Desktop is an IDE for editing, running, and debugging a codebase, with an additional agent workspace for delegated tasks. Its IDE window supports VS Code extensions and split-screen editing across files. Developers can open a local folder or clone a Git repository, then choose a conventional editing mode or use the SOLO workflow for AI-planned work. The product family also includes mobile and web surfaces, but this listing is about the desktop IDE.
Choose how much of the task to delegate
A useful starting point is to open a local project or clone a Git repository. TRAE's documentation separates its code-editor IDE window from the task-oriented Agent window. In the IDE window, developers can read and edit files, run and debug code, and work with VS Code extensions. The Agent window is designed for multiple tasks and can offload longer work to a cloud runtime. The IDE also offers IDE mode, where the developer retains control of the process, and SOLO mode, where the agent plans and carries work through code generation, testing, preview, and deployment. For a small repair, stay in the IDE window and use the assistant while examining individual files. For a broader change, an agent task may be a better fit, but its output still needs review against the project's own requirements. These are examples based on the documented workflow. TRAE Desktop installers are listed for macOS, Windows, and Linux. The quickstart requires signing in with a TRAE account. A Free plan is listed, but its monthly AI allowance and autocomplete are limited; higher plans add usage and features. The billing guide says paid services are available only in listed countries and regions, so account or payment eligibility can differ by location.
Strengths
- The IDE and Agent windows offer distinct workflows for direct editing and multi-step delegated tasks.
- The IDE supports VS Code extensions, split-screen editing, running, and debugging source projects.
- The official quickstart lists macOS, Windows, and Linux installers and explains how to open a folder or clone a repository.
Watch out for
- The Free plan has a limited monthly usage allowance and limited autocompletion, while paid services are restricted to supported countries and regions.
- Using the desktop IDE requires signing in to a TRAE account.
Best for
- Developers who want an AI-assisted IDE while retaining a conventional file-editing workflow
- Teams that want to compare direct editing with a separate agent task workflow
- Users who can access the account and paid features in their region
Sources
- TRAE - Collaborate with Intelligence (Oct 25, 2026)
- Get started with TRAE Desktop - Documentation - TRAE (Oct 25, 2026)
- Plans & billing - Documentation - TRAE (Oct 25, 2026)