What is the best coding agent (CLI) like Claude Code for Local Development

A developer is facing challenges configuring Claude Code to work with llama.cpp and the Qwen3.6-35B-A3B local model, despite having a $30/year ZLM subscription for the cloud version. The cloud setup is straightforward with an automated script, but the local configuration proves difficult, leading them to consider alternatives like pi.dev. This post on a developer forum reflects a broader trend where developers seek AI coding agents that can operate offline with open-source models.

The interest in local coding agents stems from advantages such as enhanced data privacy, reduced latency, and lower long-term costs compared to cloud subscriptions. The developer's experience highlights the need for better documentation and streamlined setup processes for local AI tools. As the AI landscape evolves, tools like pi.dev and others are emerging to fill this gap, offering developers more control over their environment and models.