Four questions to ask
Use these questions to choose a starting setup:
- What should I try? Pick an app and a model size suited to the task.
- Does it fit my computer? Check the available memory and whether your graphics processor can help run it.
- What could change the answer? A long conversation, scanned PDF, or cloud connection may change the memory or privacy requirements.
- What is the next step? Follow one install guide, ask a simple question, and use a smaller model if the computer struggles.
For example, start with a short text chat before trying an entire document collection.
Hardware and memory calculations
The memory calculator includes the model file, the working space needed to run it, the conversation, any image or audio processing, and room for other programs. It uses the model file size when available, or estimates that size from the model settings you choose.
The result helps you decide what to try before downloading a large file. It estimates memory use; it cannot tell you how quickly your computer will answer. Try the model with a short task before increasing the workload.
Open the RAM/VRAM calculator →Software and privacy analysis
A desktop chat app is usually the simplest starting point. A model runner such as Ollama can also supply answers to another app. Document tools add steps for reading, searching, and storing your files.
Check each connection when privacy matters. For example, your chat model may run on your laptop while a document-search feature sends text to an online service.
Map a local AI workflow →Finding the right guide
Choose by task. Start with hardware, app choice, setup, or a specific problem.
Follow the first steps. Get a simple response working before adding more features.
Search by symptom. For example, look for a model that will not load or a PDF answer that misses the right passage.
Recheck after a change. A new model, longer conversation, or different app may need different settings.
Sources
The source list links to product instructions, model information, and hardware specifications. Check the publisher’s instructions when a setting or supported device differs from the guide.
Open the source list →