Claude Code's VS Code extension: install to checkpoints (Aug 2026)

Chat panel, diff review, checkpoints, and Chrome — the essentials from the official docs.

Source for this article

Based on the official docs at `code.claude.com/docs/en/vs-code`, fetched 2026-08-05. Claude Code docs moved from `docs.anthropic.com` to `code.claude.com` (redirect confirmed live at time of writing).

Prerequisites

VS Code 1.94.0 or higher. Any paid Claude subscription (Pro/Max/Team/Enterprise) or a Console account works — no API key required for the extension itself.

Install

Open the Extensions view (`Cmd+Shift+X` / `Ctrl+Shift+X`), search "Claude Code", and install. Works in VS Code forks too via Open VSX.

Extension vs. CLI

The extension bundles its own private CLI copy for the chat panel — it does not add `claude` to your shell PATH. For terminal use, install the standalone CLI separately. Both share the same conversation history (`claude --resume`).

Diff review and permission modes

Manual / Plan / Edit automatically, switchable from the mode indicator or `claudeCode.initialPermissionMode`. Plan mode opens the plan as a reviewable Markdown doc.

Checkpoints (rewind)

Hover any message for a rewind button: fork the conversation, rewind code only, or both — useful for undoing one change while keeping the rest of the chat.

Chrome integration

With the Claude in Chrome extension (v1.0.36+), use `@browser` in the prompt box to debug and automate browser tasks without leaving VS Code.

What it can't do

A subset of commands/skills, partial MCP management, no `!` bash shortcut, no tab completion — run `claude` in the integrated terminal for the full CLI feature set.

FAQ

Do I need an API key for the VS Code extension?

No — any paid Claude subscription or a Console account works.

Does installing the extension add `claude` to my PATH?

No, install the standalone CLI separately for terminal use.

How do I undo an unwanted change?

Use checkpoints: hover a message and rewind code, fork the conversation, or both.

Can I continue a claude.ai/code session in VS Code?

Yes, via the Session history "Web" tab, for GitHub-based sessions, signed in with your claude.ai account.

Find configs for VS Code workflows →Learn systematically at School →See the All-Access plan →