TL;DR
A developer compares Codex and Claude Code as of Dec. 22, 2025, finding both capable of “superhuman” coding but suited to different working styles. Codex is framed as better for hands-off, long-running tasks after heavy context setup; Claude Code is praised for an interactive, configurable environment with features like Skills and Plan Mode.
What happened
On Dec. 22, 2025, an independent developer published a first‑hand comparison of two advanced AI coding systems, Codex and Claude Code. The author describes both as already operating at a superhuman level and cites specific model outputs (Opus 4.5 and codex-5.2-high) as part of that assessment. In practice, the writer uses Codex for large coding jobs: they invest 30–120 minutes preparing prompts and context, then let tasks run for about 15–20 minutes, returning to substantial amounts of generated code. Claude Code is used more as an interactive assistant and development environment — the author delegates a variety of tasks to it, including using Skills to transcribe audio, generate color palettes, or rapidly prototype ideas. The piece argues the right choice depends on whether you prefer a hands-off batch style or hands-on, iterative engineering.
Why it matters
- AI coding tools are no longer experimental; both systems are described as producing high‑quality, developer‑level outputs.
- Tool choice should match an individual or team's workflow rather than be treated as a universal best option.
- Different interaction models (long-running, autonomous tasks vs. interactive, configurable workflows) change how developers organize work and time.
- Understanding tradeoffs can help teams adopt the right tooling mix rather than forcing a single workflow on everyone.
Key facts
- Article published Dec. 22, 2025; author is Joe Fabisevich, an indie developer and teacher.
- The author states both Codex and Claude Code feel 'superhuman' in how they solve problems.
- The author typically spends 30–120 minutes crafting prompts and context before running Codex jobs that take roughly 15–20 minutes.
- Codex is described as delivering high‑quality results with less real‑time steering required.
- Claude Code is noted for its interactive environment and configurable features such as CLAUDE.md, Skills, Agents, MCP, slash commands, and Plan Mode.
- The author uses Claude Code for varied tasks like audio transcription, color palette generation, and rapid prototyping.
- Recommendation: try each tool for a week to see which fits your personal workflow.
- The author cautions that assessments reflect the state of these tools on the stated date and may change quickly.
What to watch next
- How both platforms update their models and feature sets over time — not confirmed in the source
- Adoption patterns among engineering teams as different interaction styles become more common — not confirmed in the source
- New integrations or workflow tools that blur the line between hands-off batch jobs and interactive engineering — not confirmed in the source
Quick glossary
- Codex: An AI coding system referenced in the article, described as suited to longer-running, high‑quality code generation after detailed prompt preparation.
- Claude Code: An AI development environment noted for interactive features and configurability, including Skills and Plan Mode.
- Context engineering: The practice of preparing prompts, files, and surrounding information so an AI system can produce the desired output.
- Skills: Reusable, task-oriented capabilities or extensions within an AI environment that automate specific workflows (as described for Claude Code).
- Plan Mode: An interaction mode that helps the user and AI align on step‑by‑step plans before executing work; highlighted as a distinctive Claude Code feature.
Reader FAQ
Which tool is objectively better?
The author argues neither is universally better; the right choice depends on your working style.
How long does the author spend prepping Codex tasks?
They report spending 30–120 minutes creating prompts and context before a Codex run that takes about 15–20 minutes.
What features make Claude Code attractive?
Claude Code is praised for interactivity and configurable features such as CLAUDE.md, Skills, Agents, MCP, slash commands, and Plan Mode.
Are the specific model assignments or company details for each model stated?
Not confirmed in the source.
Codex vs. Claude Code (Today) DEC 22, 2025 | 5 MIN READ AI Programming Engineering Every programmer has their favorite language. Some prefer Python, while others swear by TypeScript1. Many…
Sources
- Codex vs. Claude Code (Today)
- Codex vs Claude Code: which is the better AI coding agent?
- Comparing Claude Code vs Codex for coding – Graphite
- Comparing Claude Code, OpenAI Codex, and Google …
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