Llama.cpp vs Ollama: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Llama.cpp and Ollama 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
Ollama
Run open-source LLMs locally with one command
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Run Llama 3, Mistral, and more locally
- • One command to download and run models
| At a Glance |  Llama.cpp |  Ollama |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Hosting & Deployment | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Llama.cpp | Ollama |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Hosting & DeploymentAI Model Deployment | Terminal ToolsAI Agents |
How Llama.cpp and Ollama Compare
Llama.cpp
Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware
Free · 82/100 score
Ollama
Run open-source LLMs locally with one command
Free · 86/100 score
Llama.cpp is a hosting & deployment tool. Ollama is in terminal 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. Ollama: 86/100.
Go with: Ollama
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ollama
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. Ollama is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Ollama scores higher: 86/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Ollama
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Llama.cpp
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
Ollama (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Llama.cpp or Ollama better?
Ollama scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Llama.cpp and Ollama used for?
Llama.cpp: Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware. Ollama: Run open-source LLMs locally with one command.
What does Llama.cpp cost vs Ollama?
Llama.cpp is completely free. Ollama is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.