Cursor

Migrating from VS Code to Cursor

2024-03-20By Cursor Team

Introduction

Transitioning from Visual Studio Code to Cursor Editor is a straightforward process, as Cursor is built on top of VS Code's core. This guide will help you migrate your settings, extensions, and workflow while introducing you to Cursor's powerful AI features.

Note: Cursor maintains compatibility with most VS Code features while adding AI capabilities that enhance your development experience.

Preparation

Before migrating, take these preparatory steps:

  1. Backup VS Code Settings:
    • Export your VS Code settings.json
    • Save your keybindings.json
    • List your installed extensions
  2. Review Current Workflow:
    • Document frequently used commands
    • Note essential extensions
    • List custom snippets

Transferring Settings

Most VS Code settings work directly in Cursor:

Settings Location:

  • Windows:%APPDATA%\Cursor\User\settings.json
  • macOS:~/Library/Application Support/Cursor/User/settings.json
  • Linux:~/.config/Cursor/User/settings.json

Key settings to transfer:

  • Editor preferences (font, theme, etc.)
  • Formatting options
  • Language-specific settings
  • Workspace configurations

Extension Compatibility

Cursor supports most VS Code extensions:

Fully Compatible

  • Language support extensions
  • Themes and icons
  • Snippets
  • Formatters

May Need Alternatives

  • AI-related extensions
  • Custom UI modifications
  • VS Code-specific tools

Keyboard Shortcuts

Most VS Code shortcuts work identically in Cursor, with some additions:

Common VS Code Shortcuts

  • Ctrl+P - Quick Open
  • Ctrl+Shift+P - Command Palette
  • Ctrl+B - Toggle Sidebar
  • Ctrl+, - Settings

New Cursor AI Shortcuts

  • Ctrl+K - AI Chat
  • Ctrl+Shift+I - Explain Code
  • Alt+/ - AI Completion

Workspace Setup

Transfer your workspace configuration:

  1. Copy .vscode folder to your project
  2. Update workspace-specific settings
  3. Configure debugging settings
  4. Set up task runners

Tip: Cursor uses the same workspace format as VS Code, so your existing workspace files should work without modification.

AI Features

Explore Cursor's unique AI capabilities:

Code Understanding

  • Contextual code explanations
  • Function documentation
  • Code review suggestions

Code Generation

  • Smart code completion
  • Test generation
  • Refactoring assistance

Tips and Tricks

Make your transition smoother with these tips:

  • Gradual Migration:

    Start with a small project to get familiar with Cursor's features.

  • Keep Both Editors:

    Initially maintain both editors while transitioning your workflow.

  • Learn AI Features:

    Invest time in learning Cursor's AI capabilities to enhance productivity.

  • Community Resources:

    Join the Cursor community for tips and support during migration.

Pro Tip: Use Cursor's AI chat to ask questions about VS Code features and their Cursor equivalents during your transition.