Can the New GLM Coding Plan Outperform Claude Code for AI Developers?
You pay too much for AI coding tools or face clumsy, costly platforms. You are not the only one. Many developers used Claude Code and similar tools. They saw costs grow and service weaken. GLM’s coding plan comes in at $3 a month. It works well and adds some unique touches that may shift how coders use AI in their work.
Here is why this matters and how you can get more from your AI coding work without overspending.
Why Are Developers Looking Beyond Claude Code?
Claude Code and like tools caught many eyes at first. They built a good name with solid skill. Over time, users met issues such as:
- High price hikes: Plans reach into the hundreds each month.
- Weaker service: The tool takes long to respond and shows more bugs.
- Poor adaptation: The AI does not change well when given user feedback.
Many face these problems. This leads them to seek a more affordable tool that does not drop quality.
Meet the GLM Coding Plan: Low Cost and Solid Use
The GLM coding plan uses the GLM4.5 model. It shows:
- Low cost: $3 a month for the base plan. This beats competitors that cost $30 to $300.
- Quick response: The tool shifts when it gets clear feedback and can fix code clues that most AIs miss.
- Wide reach: It works with tools like Rue, Klein, Kilo, and open-source code setups.
The tool is not perfect. It might need a few tries for hard tasks. Yet it wins with its steady work and low price.
How to Use GLM Coding Tools Best
Set up and work with AI correctly. Follow these steps:
-
Use Architect Mode:
When you see a bug or need a new feature, ask the AI for a plan first. A clear plan keeps mistakes low. -
Save a Markdown Plan:
Ask the AI to write down the plan in markdown. The notes help the tool stay on track. -
Keep Rules Short:
Do not give long and twisty orders. Instead, plan small edge cases, write quick code, and always use your markdown note when in doubt. -
Run Ongoing Checks:
Let the AI watch the terminal and use lint tools. This finds errors early and helps code well. -
Shorten Context:
For notes and history, set a cap (for example, 7 in GLM terms). Do not fill the tool with too many details at once.
The Morph Fast Apply Trick for Kilo Code Users
Kilo Code has a feature called the "morph fast apply" option. This part acts on code changes, separate from the main GLM tool. It can do search-and-replace tasks well by:
- Making less error when fixing code.
- Saving time even if it costs a bit more.
This option costs about $1 per million output tokens and 80 cents per million input tokens. On busy days, the time saved puts the cost in its place.
Handling Multimodal Tasks: Screenshots & Images
GLM 4.5 does not support images or screenshots on its own. This is hard if you work with UIs or visual items. There are easy fixes:
- Use Gemini 2.5 Flash, a free API. It changes screenshots into text that GLM can use.
- Alternatively, try GLM’s 4.5 Vision model. It manages images and videos. It costs about 60 cents per input token and $1.80 per output token. Keep a small budget for this model when you need images.
Extra Perks: Integration & Automation
GLM coding works with open-source code tools. You can now:
- Build shell scripts to run tasks.
- Use it in GitHub workflows for constant integration and deployment work.
These parts add wide room for developers who wish to test or add AI to larger DevOps setups.
Addressing Trust Concerns
Some worry about GLM because of its Chinese company roots. When you check the facts:
- Both Anthropic and GLM aim to grow steady work.
- GLM models are open and have not cut service suddenly.
- With a $3 plan, you try without a heavy license fee. This lowers your risk and speeds up tests.
Testing without a heavy investment can help you build better tools and find new ideas.
Summary: Who Gains Most from GLM Coding Plans?
GLM works best if you are:
- An independent developer who keeps costs low.
- A startup or small team looking to try out AI-assisted coding.
- An automation fan who ties AI into workflows.
- A coder tired of high prices and broken promises.
GLM’s $3 plan is a good spot to start. With a clear setup and careful use, this plan can rival high-end tools while letting you try new ideas with ease.
Next Steps: Start Testing GLM Today
- Sign up for the $3 GLM coding plan.
- Use architect mode to plan before you code.
- Keep your prompts clear and short.
- Try the morph fast apply option if you use Kilo Code for batch edits.
- Test with GLM 4.5 Vision or Gemini Flash when images are needed.
- Test on a small project before you scale up to bigger work.
Follow these steps. See if GLM fits your coding style and saves you money while you code well.
Cutting costs on AI coding tools does not mean you must settle for less. With a smart setup and the right model, you capture good results and keep your spend low. Try out GLM and see if it is the better pick for your AI coding work.
