OpenComputer is an open-source cloud that gives each AI agent its own persistent Linux computer. Instead of a disposable sandbox that vanishes when a task ends, every session runs on a real machine with a shell, a filesystem, and installable packages, and it stays running until it is stopped. It serves developers who build long-running coding, research, and operations agents and need state to survive across sessions.[1]
Quick verdict
Teams running agents that keep files, packages, and progress between sessions benefit most from OpenComputer. Its durable sessions with hibernate, resume, and per-second billing directly address the reinstall-and-restart loop of disposable sandboxes. Teams that need short-lived code execution, GPUs, or documented regional controls should choose something else, since those are not evidenced here. If persistent agent computers match the workload, start with OpenComputer; if throwaway execution is enough, a lighter sandbox such as E2B fits better.[1][2]
Key features
Persistent Linux computer per session Every session runs on a real machine with shell, read-write filesystem, apt, npm, pip, and full egress, so agents install packages, clone repositories, and drive browsers directly.[1]
Durable hibernating sessions Sessions stream, can be steered mid-run, hibernate when idle, and resume where they left off instead of restarting from scratch.[1]
Agents as TypeScript functions Behavior is a reactive function using hooks for model, tools, and MCP servers, deployed with one command through immutable development and production versions.[1][2]
Tools and MCP servers on the machine Cloning a repository, running ffmpeg, or driving headless Chromium happens on the session computer rather than through a remote shim.[1][2]
Origin-bound secrets Each secret is bound to one origin and injected after the request leaves the machine, keeping managed API keys outside the agent runtime.[1]
Schedules and chat operations Code-defined cron schedules run agents unattended, and deployed agents connect to Slack threads, GitHub, and Linear through managed connections.[1][2]
Project database and memory A durable SQL database shared by every session in a project environment, plus project-scoped document memory, carries state across sessions.[1]
Usage billing with model choice Machine time is billed per second and model calls pass through at API prices, with bring-your-own-key and subscription options documented.[1][2]
Who will love it
A workbench-style agent edits code, runs checks, and opens draft pull requests from a machine that keeps its checkout and dependencies between sessions.[1][2]
Cron-defined agents for hygiene, prospecting, or market research run unattended with durable sessions and streaming oversight.[1][2]
The deploy-as-a-function loop with dashboard and CLI playgrounds shortens the path from instruction change to running session.[1][2]
Who should avoid it
Short-lived stateless runs do not use persistence, hibernation, or checkpoints, so a lighter disposable sandbox is simpler and cheaper.[1]
Sandbox billing and capability evidence here covers CPU machines; no GPU option is documented in the inspected sources.[1][2]
No region list, data-residency statement, or compliance certification was found in the inspected official sources, so regulated buyers cannot verify fit.[1][2]
Questions worth asking
What is the best OpenComputer alternative for non-technical users?
Is OpenComputer really no-code?
How much does OpenComputer cost per month?
Pricing is usage-based with one set of rates: model calls pass through at API prices and machine time is billed per second, with plans structured as prepaid usage credit. Rates checked October 12, 2026; confirm current pricing on the official site before budgeting.[1]
Sources and editorial review
Source research. Reviewed on October 12, 2026. Written by Sanjib Sah. AI assisted; reviewed by a human editor.
We have not run or tested this product.
- OpenComputer: the platform for long-running agents
official · Observed October 12, 2026
Official homepage evidencing positioning, session machine, durable sessions, agent functions, MCP, secrets, schedules, usage billing, and support tier.
- OpenComputer docs: Serverless Agents overview
official · Observed October 12, 2026
Managed runtime, TypeScript agents, one-command deploy, immutable versions, no local server.
- OpenComputer documentation index
official · Observed October 12, 2026
Management API, SDK, project database, schedules, secrets, service connections, BYOK.
- diggerhq/opencomputer on GitHub
official · Observed October 12, 2026
Repository identity diggerhq/opencomputer, TypeScript, Apache-2.0.
- Apache License 2.0 in diggerhq/opencomputer
official · Observed October 12, 2026
Full Apache-2.0 license text at the repository root.