Best AI Coding tools for larger projects in 2026?
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A developer is seeking recommendations for AI coding tools suitable for larger projects, noting that current tools like ChatGPT (o1 not Pro) struggle with consistency and context in more complex, multi-file scenarios. The user highlights the rapid evolution of AI tools, making older discussions less relevant, and is looking for effective solutions for their workflow.
I know this kind of question comes up a lot but AI tools change so fast that older threads don't feel that relevant anymore so I wanted to ask again based on my current setup.
I'm working on a few hobby projects some of which are fairly large C+_codebases in Visual Studio.
Right now I've mainly been using ChatGPT (o1 not Pro). It works fine for smaller tasks buto nce the project gets more complex or I need changes across multiple files it starts to lose consistency or gives answers that don't quite fit the full context
What I'm trying to figure out is what people are actually using for bigger projects where context really matters?
Ideally looking for something that can:
handle larger codebases without losing track of structure
understand relationships across multiple files not just single snippets
help with debugging and refactoring in a more reliable way
feel ay leasst as capable as p1 if not better
What's actually working well for this kind of workflow right now?