Compare the three ways to run Claude Code: terminal, Desktop chat, and co-work. See what features each supports and which to start with.
Claude Code can run in three different modes. Each one gives you access to different workspace features. The mode you pick determines how much of Claude's power you actually get to use.
This is Claude as most people know it. Open the Desktop app, start a conversation. You can add files as context by dragging them in.
Co-work mode in the Desktop app gives Claude Code's workspace system a graphical interface. It reads your workspace files and can run commands and skills.
The terminal is where Claude Code was designed to run. Every workspace feature works. You see exactly what Claude is doing, file by file, step by step.
This is the most common objection. And it's valid. The terminal looks intimidating if you've never used one.
Start with whatever gets you using a workspace today. If you're already comfortable with the terminal, use it. If you want a GUI, use co-work. If you just want to try it, desktop chat with a CLAUDE.md file is fine.
Yes. The same workspace files work across all three modes. You can start in co-work and move to terminal later without changing anything.
For Claude Code, you need about three commands: cd (change directory), ls (list files), and claude (start Claude). The getting started guide covers everything.
Yes. The downloaded workspace works in terminal, co-work, and desktop chat. You get the most features in terminal mode.
Yes. Claude Code runs in Windows Terminal, PowerShell, WSL, and Git Bash. The getting started guide has platform-specific instructions.
No. Use whatever gets you working today. The tradeoff is that terminal workspaces compound over time in ways co-work sessions don't. Skills collect learnings, context files grow, and each session builds on the last. If you're investing seriously in AI workflows, terminal gives you more return. But "some AI workflow" beats "no AI workflow" every time.