Local AI Software Setup
Step-by-step setup for LM Studio, Ollama, Open WebUI, document AI, RAG workflows, and private local models.
- LM Studio
- Ollama + Open WebUI
- Document AI / RAG
- Image generation
PCBuyer Intelligence Platform
Build, Buy, and Understand AI Computers
PCBuyer helps you check your current PC, choose an AI-ready system, or build your own computer for local AI applications.
Interactive AI tools
How we score AI PCs →
Check, build, or test model compatibility
Use one focused tool at a time. The readiness checker stays private and browser-safe.
AI PC Readiness Checker
Check your current computer using a browser-safe estimate, then enter exact specs for a stronger score.
Safe browser check
This runs only in your browser. It does not read your files, scan folders, inspect documents, or upload hardware details unless you manually submit the form below.
Need help finding your specs?
Processor
Windows: Start → Settings → System → About → Processor.
Graphics card
Right-click Start → Device Manager → Display adapters, or open Task Manager → Performance → GPU.
RAM
Windows: Start → Settings → System → About → Installed RAM.
GPU memory
Desktop → Display settings → Advanced display → Display adapter properties → Dedicated Video Memory.
These steps only help you find what to type into the form. PCBuyer does not read files, scan folders, or inspect installed software.
Build wizard
Build Your AI Computer
Answer a few questions and PCBuyer will recommend an AI PC tier for your workload.
High-intent tool
Can I Run This Model?
Check whether your system is in the right range for popular local AI model sizes.
Buying shortlist
See all AI computers →Best AI Computers — Comparison
Top product profiles for local AI workloads. Use this as a starting point, then verify exact specs and prices.
| Product | Best for | RAM | GPU / VRAM | AI Tier | Best Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Apple iPad Air M2 | AI-ready buying candidate | 128GB | Apple integrated GPU | Creator AI | USD 496.99 | View Offers |
 Lenovo Tab P Series | AI-ready buying candidate | 128GB | Integrated graphics | Creator AI | USD 280.00 | View Offers |
 ASUS ProArt Creator Laptop | AI-ready buying candidate | 32GB | NVIDIA RTX class | Local AI Starter | USD 2,579.99 | View Offers |
 Lenovo Yoga Pro Creator Laptop | AI-ready buying candidate | 32GB | Integrated or NVIDIA RTX class | Local AI Starter | USD 1,500.00 | View Offers |
 RTX 4070 Gaming Laptop | AI-ready buying candidate | 16GB | NVIDIA RTX 4070 Laptop GPU | Serious AI | USD 1,200.00 | View Offers |
 RTX 4070 Desktop Workstation | AI-ready buying candidate | 32GB | NVIDIA RTX 4070 | Serious AI | USD 925.00 | View Offers |
Learn & set up local AI
Run AI on your own computer with confidence
These two sections are the practical learning path behind the buying guidance.
Learn to Build Your Own AIAI 101 Lesson
A beginner-friendly lesson path that teaches visitors how local AI works, what hardware matters, how to install tools, download models, use RAG, and understand image generation.
- 9 core lessons
- About 1 hour
- Browser-only progress
- Free access / Certificate of Course Completion
What actually matters
VRAM comes first for serious local AI
CPU, RAM, storage, and NPUs matter, but VRAM or unified memory usually determines which local models you can run comfortably.
- VRAM / Unified MemoryThe main limiter for model size and speed.
- System RAMHelps with larger models, multitasking, and fallback workloads.
- GPU SupportNVIDIA CUDA currently has broad tool compatibility.
- StorageModels are large. Fast NVMe SSD storage helps.
- CPUImportant, but usually slower than GPU acceleration for local AI.
- NPUUseful for built-in AI features, not a substitute for GPU VRAM.
Starter AI PC
Good for AI chat, coding helpers, and smaller local models.
$600 – $1,000View DetailsSerious Local AI PC
Better for 7B–13B models, SD workflows, and stronger experimentation.
$1,200 – $2,000View DetailsCreator AI Workstation
For video, image generation, 3D, upscaling, and advanced local work.
$2,000 – $4,000+View DetailsSmall-Business AI Server
For document search, private automation, and multi-user workflows.
$4,000+View DetailsFAQ
AI Computer Questions
Visible answers help buyers, search engines, and AI summaries understand the page.
How much VRAM do I need for local AI?
For light local AI, 6–8GB can work. For serious local LLMs and image generation, 12GB, 16GB, 24GB, or more is better.
Can I run AI on a laptop?
Yes, but laptop thermals, power limits, RAM, and GPU VRAM matter. A strong desktop is usually faster and easier to upgrade.
Is an NPU enough for local AI?
An NPU helps with some efficient built-in AI features. It is not a replacement for a GPU with strong VRAM for larger local models.
Is NVIDIA better than AMD for local AI?
NVIDIA currently has the broadest CUDA-based tool support. AMD can work, but support varies by tool and operating system.
How much RAM do I need?
16GB is a minimum for basic use. 32GB is a stronger starting point. 64GB or more helps larger models and heavier workflows.
Can a Mac run local AI?
Yes. Apple Silicon Macs can run local AI well, especially with enough unified memory. Model size still depends on available memory.
What is the difference between VRAM and RAM?
RAM is system memory. VRAM is GPU memory. For serious local AI, VRAM is often the first bottleneck.
Can I run Llama locally?
Yes, but the model size, quantization level, RAM, VRAM, and tool choice determine whether it runs well.
Should I build or buy an AI PC?
Build for upgradeability and performance per dollar. Buy prebuilt for convenience, warranty, and faster setup.
Are refurbished workstations good for AI?
They can be good values if the GPU, RAM, storage, and power supply fit the intended workload.
Do I need internet to run local AI?
You need internet to download tools and models. After setup, many local models can run offline.
What is the best budget AI computer?
The best budget choice depends on workload. For local AI, prioritize GPU VRAM, then RAM and fast storage.