LM Studio vs Ollama: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between LM Studio 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:
LM Studio
Run local LLMs with a beautiful interface
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Beautiful desktop app for running local LLMs
- • Visual model browser and one-click downloads
Ollama
Run open-source LLMs locally with one command
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Run Llama 3, Mistral, and more locally
- • One command to download and run models
| At a Glance |  LM Studio |  Ollama |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 83/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | LM Studio | Ollama |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsAI Research | Terminal ToolsAI Agents |
How LM Studio and Ollama Compare
LM Studio
Run local LLMs with a beautiful interface
Free · 83/100 score
Ollama
Run open-source LLMs locally with one command
Free · 86/100 score
LM Studio is a api tools tool. Ollama is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: LM Studio
Want the highest-rated option?
LM Studio: 83/100. 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?
LM Studio is a api tools tool. Ollama is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Ollama scores higher: 86/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Ollama
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 83
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
LM Studio
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Ollama (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LM Studio or Ollama better?
Ollama scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are LM Studio and Ollama used for?
LM Studio: Run local LLMs with a beautiful interface. Ollama: Run open-source LLMs locally with one command.
What does LM Studio cost vs Ollama?
LM Studio is completely free. Ollama is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.