Installing Claude Code
Claude Code is the command-line version of Claude — the AI you'll work with inside VS Code. It runs directly in your project, reads your files, and writes code based on your instructions. Vibecheck installs it for you automatically once Homebrew and Node.js are in place.
How It Works
The extension installs Claude Code automatically during the Tools step. Once installed, you'll need to sign in with your Anthropic account (that's the company that makes Claude).
Do I need to pay?
Yes. Claude Code requires a paid Anthropic plan — Claude Pro ($20/month) or Claude Max ($100/month or $200/month for heavier usage). Pro works great for getting started. You'll be prompted to create or sign in to your Anthropic account during setup.
It's Not Working
What's the difference between Claude.ai and Claude Code?›
Same company (Anthropic), same Claude — but different products. Claude.ai is the web chat interface. Claude Code is the version built for developers that runs inside your editor. If you already have a paid Anthropic account at Claude.ai, you can use the same account for Claude Code.
I don't have an Anthropic account — how do I create one?›
Go to claude.ai → sign up → upgrade to Pro. Once you have a Pro account, come back to VS Code — the extension will walk you through signing Claude Code into your account.
It says "authentication required" after installing›
Open a terminal in VS Code (Terminal → New Terminal) and type claude then press Enter. This starts the Claude Code login flow. Follow the prompts to sign in with your Anthropic account. Once done, close the terminal and click "Check Again" in the Vibecheck extension.
The install failed›
Go back one step and try reinstalling Node.js first — the Claude Code install depends on it. If it fails again with a message about permissions, open a terminal (Terminal → New Terminal in VS Code), paste this command exactly: sudo npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code and press Enter. It will ask for your Mac password — type it and press Enter (you won't see it as you type).
Claude Code keeps asking me to log in every time›
This can happen if you use a Mac cleaning app that wipes app data. The fix is simple: open a terminal (Terminal → New Terminal), type claude, press Enter, and log in again. If it keeps happening every day, let us know at help@letsvibecheck.ai — it's likely a conflict with a cleanup tool.
Still stuck? Contact us →