OpenAI Codex
by OpenAI · San Francisco, USA · Founded 2015
OpenAI's coding agent across app, CLI, IDE and cloud
Reviewed by the the30top research team · Last reviewed 2026-10-27
Overview
Codex is OpenAI's coding agent, bundled into ChatGPT plans rather than sold on its own. Free and Go users get a limited desktop experience, while Plus at $20 a month adds web, CLI, IDE extension and iOS access, and Pro starts at $100. Limits are expressed as estimated local messages per five-hour window and shift with the model used, so real capacity is harder to predict than a fixed quota.
Our verdict
Convenient if ChatGPT is already part of your stack, with broad surface coverage. Plan the limits carefully because they move with the model you choose.
Best for
Teams and individuals already on ChatGPT who want a coding agent without a separate subscription.
Avoid if
You need a predictable fixed quota or a standalone coding tool price.
Pros
- Included in ChatGPT plans you may already pay for
- Available in app, web, CLI and IDE
- Business and Enterprise tiers add admin controls
Cons
- Limits are estimates that vary by model
- Free and Go access is limited and subject to rollout
- Cloud tasks can use more allowance than local ones
Key capabilities
Frequently asked questions
How much does OpenAI Codex cost?
Codex comes with ChatGPT plans. Free is $0 and Go is $8 with limited desktop access, Plus is $20, Pro starts at $100, and Business is $20 per user billed annually or $25 monthly.
What are the Codex usage limits?
On Plus, OpenAI estimates 15 to 160 local messages per five hours for GPT-6.1 Sol, with weekly limits possible. Pro has no five-hour limit.
Where can I use Codex?
On Plus and above it is available on the web, in the CLI, in IDE extensions and on iOS, plus the desktop app.