Claude Agent SDK vs Claude API
Claude Agent SDK Anthropic
The agent loop behind Claude Code as a TypeScript and Python library, with tools, skills, MCP and subagents.
VisitClaude API Anthropic
Claude models for developers, with tool use, prompt caching, batches and skills; also on AWS, Google Cloud and Azure.
VisitSide by side
| Property | Claude Agent SDK | Claude API |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Product | Product |
| Category | AI agents and automation | AI models and APIs |
| Made by | Anthropic | Anthropic |
| Pricing | Pay per use | Pay per use |
| Open source | No | No |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | API | API |
| Startup | Yes | Yes |
Features
Only Claude Agent SDK
- agent framework
- multi-agent
Both
- mcp
- skills
Only Claude API
- llm api
- reasoning
- coding
- agents