Compare
Cursor vs Claude API
Side-by-side comparison of Cursor and Claude API for SKILL.md agent skills — install model, shell access, native support, skill count and best use cases.
Comparison
At a glance
| Dimension | Cursor | Claude API |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Cursor | Anthropic |
| Native SKILL.md support | Via compatibility layer | Yes |
| Verified skills indexed | 73 | 13 |
| Install model | Local folder | POST /v1/skills |
| Shell / Bash access | Yes | Sandboxed |
| Tagline | AI-first IDE. SKILL.md works via the Cursor plugin layer; per-skill compatibility verified here. | Claude API + Skills SDK. Pre-built skill_id values plus custom uploads via /v1/skills. |
Both
9
Skills verified to work on both Cursor and Claude API.
Only Cursor
64
Indexed for Cursor but not yet verified on Claude API.
Only Claude API
4
Indexed for Claude API but not yet verified on Cursor.
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 Cursor · Skills for Claude API.
FAQ
Common questions
Which is better for SKILL.md skills, Cursor or Claude API?
Claude API has native SKILL.md support; Cursor uses a compatibility layer. Cursor has 73 verified skills indexed here; Claude API has 13. 9 skills work on both.
Can I use the same Skill on Cursor and Claude API?
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 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.
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.
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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