Vibecoding isn't as fun as writing code by hand

Your AI coding assistant might become less delightful to use over time, diminishing its utility.

The author, Curiositry, finds that while AI-assisted coding, or "vibecoding," offers initial thrills and rapid prototyping, it lacks the deeper satisfaction derived from traditional, manual code writing. Experiencing this firsthand with two recent Python scraper projects, the author contrasts the "instant dopamine" of vibecoding with the "hard-won accomplishment" and "job well done" feelings associated with manual development. Curiositry posits that vibecoding frontloads the fun but bypasses critical stages of satisfaction like learning and meticulous problem-solving. Despite vibecoding enabling the creation of complex projects that would otherwise be infeasible, the author expresses a preference for firsthand engagement with reality, viewing AI coding as a detached, less fulfilling process.

The essay argues that AI coding "frontloads the fun," providing quick dopamine hits by enabling rapid prototype development and the creation of previously unattainable projects. This approach, however, bypasses the "Type II fun" of overcoming challenges, leading to a sense of accomplishment and mastery often associated with manual coding. The author suggests this difference in satisfaction stems from vibecoding creating a layer of abstraction between the developer and the actual implementation, akin to being an "executive of a large company that is barely under your control."

This perspective highlights a potential long-term drawback for AI coding tools: a diminishing return on user engagement. While effective for initial exploration and specific utility, the lack of sustained, deep satisfaction could lead to users eventually seeking more involved, albeit slower, development processes. This could impact the adoption and perceived value of AI coding assistants beyond their initial novelty or utility for projects that would otherwise be impossible.