mcp-use MCP Server

mcp-use is not a server for one specific function — it's a development framework for building MCP apps that plug into ChatGPT and Claude, and for building an MCP server of your own. Think of it as MCP scaffolding rather than a finished tool.

If what you want is to write a server rather than use an existing one, or to embed MCP capabilities into your own app, a framework like this saves you from wiring up the protocol from scratch.

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Install / Connect

claude mcp add mcp-use -- npx -y mcp-use

Follow the official README; env and args vary per server.

Works with these clients

  • Claude Desktopnpx
  • Claude Codenpx
  • Cursornpx
  • VS Codenpx
  • Windsurfnpx

Derived from the registry manifest (package type and transport) — we have not installed it ourselves. Check the official README before relying on it.

Why use it

Good for: developers building an MCP server or MCP app, rather than users who just want to connect a finished tool.

Before connecting: it's a framework, not a plug-and-play tool server — using it means writing code. The maintenance signals below matter more than usual for a framework: migrating off an abandoned framework costs far more than swapping one server.

Similar / alternative servers

Frequently Asked Questions

How is it different from using the official SDK directly?

It offers a higher-level abstraction over the protocol, aiming to cut boilerplate. Whether it's worth it depends on your project's complexity; see the official docs for specifics.

Can I use it to connect existing servers?

It's aimed at development. If you just want to use a finished server, that server's own setup instructions are more direct.