Llama.cpp vs LM Studio: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Llama.cpp and LM Studio comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Llama.cpp
Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware
Best for you if:
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Llama.cpp is a C++ port of Meta's LLaMA model for local inference
- • It runs large language models on consumer hardware with CPU and GPU support
LM Studio
Run local LLMs with a beautiful interface
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Beautiful desktop app for running local LLMs
- • Visual model browser and one-click downloads
| At a Glance |  Llama.cpp |  LM Studio |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 83/100 |
| Feature | Llama.cpp | LM Studio |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 83 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentAI Model Deployment | API ToolsAI Research |
How Llama.cpp and LM Studio Compare
Llama.cpp
Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware
Free · 82/100 score
LM Studio
Run local LLMs with a beautiful interface
Free · 83/100 score
Llama.cpp is a hosting & deployment tool. LM Studio is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Llama.cpp
Want the highest-rated option?
Llama.cpp: 82/100. LM Studio: 83/100.
Go with: LM Studio
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: LM Studio
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Llama.cpp is a hosting & deployment tool. LM Studio is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
LM Studio scores higher: 83/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
LM Studio
- Higher score: 83/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Llama.cpp
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
LM Studio (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Llama.cpp or LM Studio better?
LM Studio scores 83/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Llama.cpp and LM Studio used for?
Llama.cpp: Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware. LM Studio: Run local LLMs with a beautiful interface.
What does Llama.cpp cost vs LM Studio?
Llama.cpp is completely free. LM Studio is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.