# Choosing and Configuring a Tool — AI Coding Assistants: Use Them Well and Review Them Hard

Source: https://www.geekswithgeeks.com/en/ai-coding-assistants/intro-choosing

> Compare tools by the criteria that matter: context handling, privacy, cost and workflow fit.

## Ask these questions

Instead of asking "which is best?", ask: Does it see **enough of my project** (whole repo, not only the open file)? Can it **run my tests**? What happens to **my code and prompts** (stored, used for training, retained how long)? Does it work in **my editor**? What does it **cost** per user? Tools and plans change quickly, so check current documentation and your organisation's policy before committing.

## An evaluation checklist

Try two tools on the same real task from your own project before deciding.

```text
Context      sees whole repo?  indexes it locally or sends it out?
Actions      edits files?  runs tests / commands?  asks before running?
Privacy      training on my code?  retention?  org-level controls?
Fit          my editor / language / framework supported?
Cost         per seat?  usage limits?
Trial        same task on 2 tools; compare diff quality and review time
```

## Pilot before you standardise

Run a two-week trial with a few volunteers on real tickets and track review time, bugs found later and how people felt. A small pilot gives evidence for a team-wide decision.

**Quiz:** What is the best way to compare two coding assistants?

- [ ] Read only advertisements
- [x] Give both the same real task from your project and compare the results
- [ ] Pick the cheapest
- [ ] Pick whichever is newest

*Answer:* Give both the same real task from your project and compare the results. A real task shows quality, context handling and review effort on your own code.