llama.cpp
C/C++ inference engine for large language models, supporting quantization, multi-GPU, Apple Silicon, and an OpenAI-compatible server across a wide range of hardware.
Technical Profile & Specs
verified 2026-11-07
- Cost
- $0 / forever (Open Source)
- License
- Open Source
- Hosting Model
- Local (on your machine)
- Platforms
- desktopcross-platformone-click install
- Installation
- Clone https://github.com/ggml-org/llama.cpp or deploy with Docker Compose
- Operational Setup
- Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
- Where Your Data Lives
- All application data lives locally on your own machine.
- The Catch / Trade-off
- Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Replaces 4 paid apps
up to $100/mo ($1,200/yr) in subscriptions
llama.cpp FAQ
Common questions
Is llama.cpp free and open source?+
llama.cpp is an open-source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on local. C/C++ inference engine for large language models, supporting quantization, multi-GPU, Apple Silicon, and an OpenAI-compatible server across a wide range of hardware.
What paid software does llama.cpp replace?+
llama.cpp serves as a free replacement for 4 paid SaaS applications: Fireworks AI, LM Studio, Router, Together AI, saving up to $100/month ($1,200/year) in subscription bills.
How do you install and set up llama.cpp?+
Installation: Clone https://github.com/ggml-org/llama.cpp or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup notes: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
What is the catch or trade-off with llama.cpp?+
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.