Which tool to run an AI model on your own machine?

Sans cloud, sans API, sans data qui fuit : les solutions pour exécuter Llama, Mistral ou Qwen sur ton propre laptop.

3 tools tested

Lancer un LLM en local: the tools that actually work in 2026.

Sans cloud, sans API, sans data qui fuit : les solutions pour exécuter Llama, Mistral ou Qwen sur ton propre laptop. We tested 3tools on this task, in real conditions, with paid subscriptions. The ranking below follows the Joute score /10 (product quality) crossed with relevance on the precise use case “Lancer un LLM en local”.

Winner in May 2026: LM Studio (7.8/10), gratuit, completely free. Alternatives lower in the ranking remain valid depending on your exact profile, budget or stack.

To compare two or three tools side by side, open the Joute comparator with your shortlist. And if this task doesn't exactly match your need, see the full list of 35 tasks.

The ranking

Top 3 for lancer un llm en local

Ranked by Joute score. Each tool is tested in depth; click a row to open the full profile.

LM StudioChat & modelsDesktop app for running local models.7.8Score 2

JanChat & models100% local, open source ChatGPT alternative.7.5Score 3

OllamaChat & modelsRun AI models locally on your machine.—Score

How to choose

Which tool for your profile

If you want the best, no compromise

Go with LM Studio. Score 7.8/10, Gratuit. It's the safe default for this task in 2026.

If you want free

LM Studio or Jan or Ollama. Really free, no paywall.

If you want long-term (low obsolescence)

LM Studio. These tools have sufficient moat to avoid being absorbed by ChatGPT/Claude/Gemini in 18-24 months.

Frequently asked

What we get asked about this task.

What is the best tool for lancer un llm en local in 2026?

LM Studio (Joute score 7.8/10). Top-rated tool in our selection for this task. Full top listed above, ranked by score.

How many tools has Joute tested for this task?

3 tools selected and tested in depth on "Lancer un LLM en local". All rated on the same grid (Joute score /10, obsolescence risk, prices in euros).

Is there a free alternative?

Yes: LM Studio, Jan, Ollama. Really free, no hidden paywall or quota trap.

How does Joute choose tools for this task?

We select tools that actually address the need "Lancer un LLM en local", not just those that claim to. Criterion 1: quality on the precise use case. Criterion 2: compatible with the Joute scoring grid. Full method on the method page.

How often is this list updated?

Monthly. New tools added if better than existing ranking, tools removed if they shut down.

Ranking based on Joute score /10. Each tool is detailed on its profile, with prices in euros and obsolescence risk. profile, with prices in euros and obsolescence risk. Full method on /methode.