# How to use Claude Code and Codex together on a Mac

> Run Claude Code and Codex together on one Mac: split the work, avoid file clashes, see both in one list, and hand a job from one to the other.

Canonical: https://herdbell.com/blog/use-claude-code-and-codex-together
Author: Herdbell team
Published: 2026-11-01
Last updated: 2026-11-01

Claude Code and Codex are not an either-or choice. You can keep both and give each the job it suits. The hard part is not running them, it is keeping track of two agents that each stop and wait for you at different times.

## A simple way to split the work

1. **Give each agent its own job.** For example, one builds a feature while the other writes tests or reviews the result.
2. **Keep them out of each other's files.** Use separate folders or git worktrees so their changes do not collide.
3. **Commit often.** If you need to move work or undo it, git gives both agents a clean starting point.

## One list for both, with Herdbell

Herdbell connects to each one through its own hooks, so you do not sign in or paste API keys. See [what Herdbell can do for each agent](https://herdbell.com/blog/claude-code-vs-codex-vs-cursor).

- Both agents appear in **one list** with their project, status and what each is doing.
- When either one needs permission, a card appears at your cursor. Press **Return** to allow or **D** to deny.
- When either one finishes a turn, you can **reply from Herdbell** without opening its window.

## Moving a job from one to the other

If one agent hits a usage limit, or you want a second opinion, press **⌘H** in Herdbell to build a handoff and paste it into the other. See [what carries over in a handoff](https://herdbell.com/blog/continue-claude-code-session-in-another-agent).

## Common questions

### Can I use Claude Code and Codex at the same time?
Yes. They are separate tools, so both can run at once on one Mac. If they work on the same project, use separate git worktrees so their changes do not collide.

### Do I need Herdbell to use them together?
No. You can run both without it. Herdbell adds one list for both, alerts when either needs you, and a way to answer without switching windows.

## Related
- [Herdbell: pricing](https://herdbell.com/#pricing)
- [All posts](https://herdbell.com/blog)
- [Claude Code vs Codex vs Cursor vs Antigravity: how to monitor all of them in one place](https://herdbell.com/blog/claude-code-vs-codex-vs-cursor)
- [How to continue a Claude Code session in Codex or Cursor](https://herdbell.com/blog/continue-claude-code-session-in-another-agent)
- [How to run multiple Claude Code sessions at once and keep track of them](https://herdbell.com/blog/run-multiple-claude-code-sessions)