Ollama
Local & open models · Open source
About
A simple runtime for downloading and running open models locally, with a CLI, desktop app and local API.
Key features
- One-command model downloads
- Local OpenAI-compatible API
- Desktop chat app
- Large model library
Best for
- — Private, offline AI
- — Developers testing open models
- Pricing
- Open source
- Platforms
- macOS, Windows, Linux, CLI, API
- Works with
- VS Code
- Last checked
- 2026-10-29
- Status
- Listed, not yet tested
Our take
The easiest way to run models locally. Quality and speed depend on your hardware.
Features and pricing change often — confirm on ollama.com before you commit.
Alternatives to Ollama
| Tool | Type | Pricing | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ollama (this) | Local & open models | Open source | Private, offline AI |
| LM Studio | Local & open models | Free | Non-developers running local models |
| Jan | Local & open models | Open source | Open-source offline chat |
| ChatGPT | General assistants | Freemium | General writing and brainstorming |
| Claude | General assistants | Freemium | Long-document analysis |
| Gemini | General assistants | Freemium | Google Workspace users |
| Microsoft Copilot | General assistants | Freemium | Microsoft 365 users |