Start with the connection both clients need.
Both clients document an OpenAI-compatible connection using a base URL, key and model ID. Roo Code’s documentation specifies native tool calling, so the selected model must support that behavior.
| Requirement | Cline | Roo Code |
|---|---|---|
| Custom API connection | OpenAI Compatible settings | OpenAI Compatible settings |
| Connection values | Base URL, API key and model ID | Base URL, API key and model ID |
| Tool behavior | Check the selected model and workflow | Native tool calling is required |
| Task cost | Measure the complete task | Measure the same complete task |
Use one small task set.
Compare a scoped edit, a debugging task and a change across several files. Start from the same repository state and use the same model, rate inputs and acceptance criteria.
Record the differences that change your day.
Note how easy it is to inspect edits, control tool actions, recover from an error and understand usage. Include manual repair and abandoned attempts when judging task cost.
Keep your lower model rate whichever workflow fits.
Codimixa offers selected model rates from 0.3× the matching official API reference. Check the chosen client and model combination before using it for a larger task.
A FEW DETAILS
Before you continue
Does the cheaper client always produce a cheaper task?
Task cost also depends on model turns, context and retries. Compare accepted work under the same model pricing before drawing a cost conclusion.