Compare
Claude API vs Gemini CLI
Side-by-side comparison of Claude API and Gemini CLI for SKILL.md agent skills — install model, shell access, native support, skill count and best use cases.
Comparison
At a glance
| Dimension | Claude API | Gemini |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Anthropic | |
| Native SKILL.md support | Yes | Via compatibility layer |
| Verified skills indexed | 13 | 5 |
| 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. | Google's coding agent CLI with a SKILL.md compatibility layer. |
Both
2
Skills verified to work on both Claude API and Gemini.
Only Claude API
11
Indexed for Claude API but not yet verified on Gemini CLI.
Only Gemini
3
Indexed for Gemini CLI 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. Gemini CLI works well when you are already invested in the Google ecosystem or need its specific integrations.
Many teams use both — Skills with the SKILL.md spec are portable, and 2 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 Gemini CLI.
FAQ
Common questions
Which is better for SKILL.md skills, Claude API or Gemini CLI?
Claude API has native SKILL.md support; Gemini CLI uses a compatibility layer. Claude API has 13 verified skills indexed here; Gemini CLI has 5. 2 skills work on both.
Can I use the same Skill on Claude API and Gemini CLI?
2 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 Gemini CLI?
Drop the folder under `~/.gemini/skills/` for user-wide or `.gemini/skills/` for project-scoped. The compatibility layer translates SKILL.md frontmatter automatically.
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. Gemini CLI works for teams already invested in that platform.
More comparisons