Compare
Claude API vs Cursor
Side-by-side comparison of Claude API and Cursor for SKILL.md agent skills — install model, shell access, native support, skill count and best use cases.
Comparison
At a glance
| Dimension | Claude API | Cursor |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Anthropic | Cursor |
| Native SKILL.md support | Yes | Via compatibility layer |
| Verified skills indexed | 13 | 73 |
| Install model | POST /v1/skills | Local folder |
| Shell / Bash access | Sandboxed | Yes |
| Tagline | Claude API + Skills SDK. Pre-built skill_id values plus custom uploads via /v1/skills. | AI-first IDE. SKILL.md works via the Cursor plugin layer; per-skill compatibility verified here. |
Both
9
Skills verified to work on both Claude API and Cursor.
Only Claude API
4
Indexed for Claude API but not yet verified on Cursor.
Only Cursor
64
Indexed for Cursor but not yet verified on Claude API.
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Claude API is the deeper SKILL.md target — native support, the broadest verified skill ecosystem, and the closest fit for skill-driven workflows. Cursor works well when you are already invested in the Cursor ecosystem or need its specific integrations.
Many teams use both — Skills with the SKILL.md spec are portable, and 9 of the skills indexed here are verified on both agents. Browse the per-agent rankings to see which Skills lead on each platform: Skills for Claude API · Skills for Cursor.
FAQ
Common questions
Which is better for SKILL.md skills, Claude API or Cursor?
Claude API has native SKILL.md support; Cursor uses a compatibility layer. Claude API has 13 verified skills indexed here; Cursor has 73. 9 skills work on both.
Can I use the same Skill on Claude API and Cursor?
9 of the skills indexed here work on both. The SKILL.md spec is shared, so most skills run cleanly on both — the exceptions are skills that depend on agent-specific tools (Bash, Workflows, MCP patterns).
How do I install a Skill on Claude API?
POST your Skill zip to /v1/skills. You receive a skill_id. Reference it in your messages request — the model loads the Skill on demand.
How do I install a Skill on Cursor?
Drop the folder under `.cursor/skills/` for project-scoped, or the global Cursor config dir for user-wide. The marketplace gives one-click install for popular Skills.
Which agent should I pick for cross-platform skill use?
If native SKILL.md support and the broadest skill ecosystem matter most, pick Claude API. Cursor works for teams already invested in that platform.
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