Updated 2026-10-25

Claude Code on the web vs. Remote Control vs. your own server

There are three ways to use Claude Code away from your desk. They differ on one big question—whose account and which models you can use.

The three options

Cloud sessionsclaude.ai/codeRuns on Anthropic-managed VMs. Keeps going with your laptop closed. Subscription only.
Remote ControlYour computer + Claude appYour phone or browser becomes a window into a session on your own machine, which must stay on.
Your own serverLinux + claudeClaude Code runs on a server you control. Any credentials, any compatible model.

Side by side

Cloud sessionsRemote ControlAlwaysAgent
Works with laptop closed✓—✓
Anthropic API key——✓
Relays, OpenRouter, gateways——✓
claude.ai subscription loginRequiredRequiredOptional
Codex on the same machine—If installed locally✓
Root access, databases, DockerAnthropic-managed VMYour machine✓
CostIncluded in your planIncluded in your planServer from $0.05/h

Facts about cloud sessions and Remote Control are from Anthropic's documentation as of October 2026: both require a claude.ai account, Remote Control states "API keys are not supported," and cloud sessions "aren't available through third-party providers."

Which one should you pick?

  1. You have a Claude plan and mostly work in GitHub repos

    Start with cloud sessions. No extra cost, nothing to maintain.

  2. You have a Claude plan and a computer that's always on

    Remote Control lets you keep your local setup and check in from your phone.

  3. You pay per token, use a relay, or want full control

    Run Claude Code on your own server. That's what AlwaysAgent packages up: the server, the install, and a browser workspace that works on mobile.

AlwaysAgent is independent and not affiliated with Anthropic or OpenAI. You can also log in with your own claude.ai subscription on your AlwaysAgent server.

FAQ

Is Claude Code on the web free?
Cloud sessions are included in Pro, Max, and Team plans and eligible Enterprise seats, and count toward your plan's usage limits. Anthropic says there's no separate charge for the cloud VM.
Does Remote Control need my computer on?
Yes. Remote Control sessions run on your machine; the web and mobile apps are only a window into them, so your computer and the claude process must keep running.
Can I use my Claude subscription on AlwaysAgent?
Yes. You can sign in with your own account on your server, or use an API key, a relay, or OpenRouter instead.

Want the server option without the setup?

AlwaysAgent is a dedicated cloud server with Claude Code and Codex preinstalled and a browser workspace. Bring any key or log in with your subscription.

Try it for $0.05/h →