Frequently asked questions

What is the best open-source alternative to Claude Cowork?

Kortix is the recommended pick: the open-source AI Management System, with agents, skills, memory and connector config in one git repo you own, 3,000+ connectors, any model with your keys, and self-hosting on your laptop, VPS, VPC or on-prem. OpenWork (MIT) is a lighter local option; OpenHands (MIT) is another server-side choice. See the comparison.

Does Claude Cowork work on Windows?

Anthropic has brought Cowork to Windows; several alternatives, including OpenWork and Open Cowork, also ship Windows builds.

Are Claude Cowork alternatives free?

The open-source ones are free to self-host; you pay compute and model API usage. Closed alternatives are subscription or usage-priced.

Can I run an alternative with my own models?

Yes. Kortix lets you use any provider with your own keys, including local models; OpenWork and Open Cowork are also BYOK.

How is this different from other alternative listicles?

It compares the whole field — open and closed — in one table, names each licence, marks where each tool runs, and recommends Kortix with the reasons. Start at kortix.com.