LocalAI vs Llama.cpp: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between LocalAI and Llama.cpp 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:
LocalAI
Self-hosted OpenAI-compatible API
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • OpenAI-compatible API you can self-host
- • Runs on CPU - no expensive GPU needed
Llama.cpp
Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • 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
| At a Glance |  LocalAI |  Llama.cpp |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | API Tools | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | 78/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | LocalAI | Llama.cpp |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | Hosting & DeploymentAI Model Deployment |
How LocalAI and Llama.cpp Compare
LocalAI
Self-hosted OpenAI-compatible API
Free · 78/100 score
Llama.cpp
Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware
Free · 82/100 score
LocalAI is a api tools tool. Llama.cpp is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: LocalAI
Want the highest-rated option?
LocalAI: 78/100. Llama.cpp: 82/100.
Go with: Llama.cpp
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Llama.cpp
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?
LocalAI is a api tools tool. Llama.cpp is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Llama.cpp scores higher: 82/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Llama.cpp
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 78
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
LocalAI
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Llama.cpp (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LocalAI or Llama.cpp better?
Llama.cpp scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are LocalAI and Llama.cpp used for?
LocalAI: Self-hosted OpenAI-compatible API. Llama.cpp: Run LLMs efficiently on consumer hardware.
What does LocalAI cost vs Llama.cpp?
LocalAI is completely free. Llama.cpp is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.