Since you've been using OpenCode on Gentoo with Ollama, llama.cpp, and multiple local models, here's how Pi compares from a developer's perspective.
| Feature | OpenCode | Pi |
|---|
| Philosophy | Batteries included | Minimal core, extend everything |
| Learning curve | Easier | Steeper initially |
| Built-in features | Extensive | Minimal |
| Speed | Good | Excellent |
| Token usage | Higher | Usually lower |
| Extension model | Plugins | TypeScript extensions |
| MCP support | Built in | Via extensions |
| LSP integration | Built in | Extension |
| Multi-agent workflows | Built in | Add yourself |
| Local models | Excellent | Excellent |
| Customization | High | Extremely high |
OpenCode
Strengths
-
Ready to use after installation
-
Rich TUI
-
LSP support
-
MCP servers
-
Multi-agent support
-
IDE integrations
-
Image support
-
Large provider support (75+ providers)
-
Very good documentation
Weaknesses
-
Larger system prompt
-
More token consumption
-
More opinionated workflow
-
Slightly slower startup than Pi
Pi
Strengths
-
Extremely lightweight
-
Very fast
-
Small context footprint
-
Easy to extend with your own tools
-
Designed around customization rather than built-in features
-
Excellent for developers who enjoy building their own workflow
Weaknesses
-
Requires more setup
-
Many conveniences must be added through extensions
-
Less polished out of the box
Which would I recommend?
Given what I know about your workflow:
-
Gentoo
-
KDE
-
Ollama
-
llama.cpp
-
Local GGUF models
-
Heavy terminal usage
-
Software development
-
Interest in automation
I'd suggest:
Keep OpenCode as your primary coding agent.
Install Pi alongside it for experimentation.
Many experienced developers now run both:
-
OpenCode for large projects and "it just works" workflows.
-
Pi when they want maximum speed, lower token usage, or a highly customized environment. Community discussions consistently describe them as complementary rather than strict replacements.
A practical setup
Bottom line
-
Choose OpenCode if you want a polished, feature-rich coding assistant that works well immediately.
-
Choose Pi if you value speed, minimalism, and building your own tooling.
-
Run both if you want the flexibility to pick the best tool for each task. That's becoming a common setup among power users.