llamafile
One executable file = model + runtime
Run LLMs locallySingle-file runtimeApache-2.0Runs locallyC/C++Beginner
🐳 Docker pulls
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🚀 Latest release ·
What is llamafile?
llamafile from Mozilla packs a model and llama.cpp into a single portable executable: download one file, run it, and get a local chat UI plus an OpenAI-compatible API.
Why people choose llamafile
- Absolute simplest distribution: one file, six OSes
- Built-in web chat UI and OpenAI-compatible endpoint
- No dependencies, no installer, no Docker required
llamafile at a glance
| Category | Run LLMs locally |
| Type | Single-file runtime |
| License | Apache-2.0 |
| Runs locally | Yes |
| Built with | C/C++ |
| Skill level | Beginner |
| Best for | sharing a model that runs anywhere with zero install |
Latest releases
Open-source alternatives to llamafile
Other open-source run llms locally tools worth comparing:
OllamaRun open LLMs locally from one command
JanOpen-source, offline ChatGPT-style desktop app
GPT4AllPrivate local AI that runs on CPU
llama.cppThe C/C++ engine powering local inference
LocalAIA drop-in OpenAI API you self-host
Text Generation WebUIFeature-rich web UI for local models
KoboldCppSingle-file local model runner
MLC LLMRun LLMs on any device, even phones
exoRun big models across your everyday devicesCortexOllama-style runtime from the Jan team
Nexa SDKRun any model on any device — CPU, GPU, NPU
RamaLamaRun models as OCI containers
GPUStackManage GPU clusters for running modelsllamafile head-to-head
llamafile vs Ollamallamafile vs LM Studiollamafile vs Janllamafile vs GPT4Allllamafile vs llama.cppllamafile vs LocalAIllamafile vs Text Generation WebUIllamafile vs KoboldCppllamafile vs MLC LLMllamafile vs exollamafile vs Cortexllamafile vs Nexa SDKllamafile vs RamaLamallamafile vs GPUStack
FAQ
Is llamafile free?
llamafile is free and open-source (Apache-2.0 license), so you can use, self-host and modify it at no cost.
Can I run llamafile locally?
Yes. llamafile is designed to run on your own machine or server, keeping your data private.
What is the best alternative to llamafile?
Popular open-source alternatives include Ollama, LM Studio, Jan. See the comparisons above to choose.
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