softwarefactory.build

A directory and guide library for agent-native software factories.

Directory / Zed

Zed

Verified

Open Rust editor with first-class agent panels.

Zed is a fast, open-source code editor written in Rust. Agent and edit-prediction features are built in, with BYOK and Zed-hosted options depending on the plan. It is an editor that grew agents, not an agent that grew an editor.

Model independence
Multi-model
Deployment
Cloud, Self-hosted
Open source
Yes
License
GPL-3.0 (editor); proprietary cloud AI services
Pricing model
Mixed
Added / updated
19 Aug 2026 / 19 Aug 2026

zed.dev · Docs · Source

Editorial take

Zed is the editor listing. The agent panel is real and the core is open; billed AI still talks to Zed’s backend unless you bring keys. Use it as a place humans and agents edit, not as orchestration. GPL on the client does not make the cloud agent open — same split as Warp.

Strengths

  • Serious open editor with native agent UI, not a VS Code fork.
  • BYOK paths documented alongside hosted models.
  • Fast enough that people will actually leave VS Code for it.

Limitations

  • No sandbox fleet or issue-to-PR product.
  • Cloud AI services are not GPL.
  • Smaller extension ecosystem than VS Code.

Fields last checked against primary sources on . Pricing and plan names rot; follow the vendor URL.