OpenAI Codexvs.Natively
The battle for the best vibe coding tools is heating up. OpenAI's new Codex IDE brings the power of ChatGPT directly into VS Code, while Natively redefines app creation with agentic automation. Which one is right for you?
Wait, what is "Vibe Coding"?
Vibe coding (or vibecode) is the shift from writing syntax to managing intent. instead of typing function x() {...}, you tell the AI "Make the button blue and animate it on click," and the AI handles the rest.
Tools like Codex and Cursor AI IDE excel at vibe editing helping you write code faster inside an editor. Natively excels at vibe building generating entire, functional mobile apps (backend included) from a single prompt.
Vibe Debugging
Don't read stack traces. Paste the error into Bug MD or Natively's chat and let the agent fix it. The best ai model for coding (currently GPT-5.1 Codex Max or Claude 4.0) usually finds the fix instantly.
Agentic Workflow
Modern tools don't just autocomplete; they act. Whether it's the Cursor Agent refactoring a file or Natively deploying your app to the App Store, agents are the new workforce.
OpenAI Codex IDE
The Power of ChatGPT in VS Code
+ const App = () => {
- Deep OpenAI Integration: Native access to the latest GPT-5 models and Canvas features.
- VS Code Extension: Runs inside your existing environment (requires VS Code Insiders usually).
- Code Diff: Excellent UI for reviewing changes before accepting them.
Natively
From Idea to App Store
- Full Stack Automation: Handles frontend (React Native) and backend (Supabase) in one go.
- No API Keys Needed: Forget about "how to get api key" or "supabase mcp" setup. It just works.
- Real Native Code: You own the code. Export to GitHub anytime.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Comparing features, pricing, and capabilities.
| Feature | OpenAI Codex IDE | Natively |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Editing files & refactoring code | Building new apps from scratch |
| Pricing | ~ $20/mo (ChatGPT Plus) | Starts at $5/mo |
| Backend Included? | No (You configure DB) | Yes (Supabase built-in) |
| Setup Required | High (Node, Python, API Keys) | None (Cloud Environment) |
| AI Model | GPT-5.1-Codex-Max / GPT-5 (Codex) | Auto-Select (optimal use) |
| Mobile Support | Code only (No simulator) | Full (Live Preview & Deployment) |
*Comparison based on available features as of December 2025. "Codex" refers to the OpenAI IDE extension.
Pricing Wars: Codex vs. Natively
Understanding OpenAI Codex pricing can be complex. You typically need a ChatGPT Plus subscription or handle separate API usage fees for their premium models.
Natively takes a different approach. For just $5/mo, you get access to a code writing ai that doesn't count tokens but focuses on milestones. We absorb the complexity of API keys and model costs, giving you a predictable bill while you build.
The "It Works on My Machine" Problem
With the new GPT-5.1 Codex Max models, code generation is better than ever. But the "environment" problem remains. Even with Cursor Ultra ($200/mo), you still have to manually:
- 🔴Debug Supabase CLI version conflicts
- 🔴Read Stripe documentation for new APIs
- 🔴Set up Apple Developer Certificates
Tools like JetBrains AI Assistant or Rider JetBrains are powerful, but they run locally. This means when the AI suggests a fix, you might still hit Supabase CLI version errors or missing dependencies.
Natively runs in a consistent cloud environment. When we generate code, we know exactly what version of Node, React Native, and Supabase is running. This eliminates the "vibe debugging" loop where you spend hours fixing your local setup instead of coding.
Beyond Text: Full Stack & Design
Codex is text-in, text-out. If you need design, you might look at Figma Code Connect. If you need payments, you're reading Stripe documentation.
Natively understands the full stack. Need payments? Tell the agent "add a subscription with Stripe" and it configures the backend, the webhook, and the UI. It's the best coder ai because it understands the system, not just the file.
Common Questions
What is the best AI model for coding?
Currently, **GPT-5.1 Codex Max** is setting the standard for raw coding capability. Natively continuously integrates the latest state-of-the-art models, automatically selecting the optimal one for every specific task—whether it's complex backend logic or creative UI design—so you always get the best result.
Do I need to know "what is a api key"?
With Codex or Cursor, yes—you often need to manage your own keys. With Natively, we handle all the API keys and infrastructure configuration for you.
Can I export code to VS Code?
Absolutely. Natively isn't a walled garden. You can export your full project to GitHub and open it in VS Code Insiders or any IDE if you want to make manual changes later.
Does Natively support Supabase MCP?
We have built-in support for Supabase that goes beyond MCP (Model Context Protocol). We directly provision and manage the database schema, auth policies, and edge functions based on your natural language prompts.
Ready to Vibe Build?
Join thousands of creators who are building real, deployable apps with Natively. No setup, no config, just vibes.
Starts at $5/mo • Cancel anytime