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Cursor Handbook

Extensions

Cursor is a VS Code fork, so most extensions you already use install and run unchanged.

  • Extending Cursor
  • Every plan.

Checked against cursor.com on 25 September 2026

What it does

Because Cursor is built on VS Code, the extension model is the same one you know: an extensions pane, a search box, and per-workspace or global installs. Language servers, formatters, themes, debuggers and linters generally work without modification.

The exception is the small set of extensions Microsoft licenses only for its own builds of VS Code. Those are unavailable in any fork, Cursor included, and the usual answer is an open equivalent from the marketplace Cursor uses.

If you are moving from VS Code, Cursor offers to import your existing extensions, settings and keybindings on first run, which is usually the fastest way to arrive at a familiar editor.

Using it

  1. Import from VS Code. On first launch, accept the prompt to bring over extensions, settings and keybindings. It can also be triggered later from the settings.
  2. Install individually. Open the extensions pane, search, install. Workspace recommendations in .vscode/extensions.json are honoured.
  3. Find replacements where needed. If a Microsoft-licensed extension will not install, search for the open alternative, which usually exists for the common cases.

Checked against Extensions in the Cursor help centre on 25 September 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Do VS Code extensions work in Cursor?
Nearly all of them. Cursor is a VS Code fork and uses the same extension API, so language servers, formatters, themes and debuggers install and run normally. Extensions Microsoft licenses exclusively to its own VS Code builds are the exception and are unavailable in any fork.
Can I import my VS Code setup?
Yes. Cursor offers to import extensions, settings and keybindings when you first launch it, and the same import is available later from settings.
Are extensions available on the free plan?
Yes. Extensions are part of the editor, not the agent, so the Hobby plan installs them like any other.

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