KoboldCpp
Single-file local runner for GGUF language models with a built-in browser interface for story and text generation.
Drive GGUF text models from a browser page on your own PC, with story-writing modes built in.
KoboldCpp is free software for running GGUF large language models on your own computer, with a bundled web interface for writing stories and text. It suits writers who want text generation that stays on their machine and who are fine downloading model files themselves.
What it is
It is a single executable built on llama.cpp that loads a GGUF model and opens the KoboldAI Lite interface at localhost:5001. That interface offers chat, adventure, instruct and story-writing modes, with memory, world info, author's notes and saved stories. It can also expose KoboldAI, OpenAI and Ollama-compatible endpoints so other apps use it as their model backend.
Who it's for
It suits writers and hobbyists who want local, private text generation and are willing to choose and download a model. It is a poor fit if you want a polished manuscript editor or a hosted service with no hardware to think about.
Key features
One-file download
A single executable for Windows, Linux or macOS, no installer or extra dependencies.
Story-writing modes
The bundled interface offers story, adventure, chat and instruct modes.
Memory and world info
Author's notes, memory and world info help keep long texts consistent.
CPU or GPU running
Runs on CPU or GPU with full or partial offloading; a GPU is optional.
Compatible APIs
Exposes KoboldAI, OpenAI and Ollama-style endpoints for other apps.
Extra generation types
Optionally adds image, speech and music generation with compatible models.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- The README says it is one executable with no installation, which makes the first run simple.
- A dedicated GPU is optional; model size and context length decide how much memory you need.
- Memory, world info and author's notes are built into the interface, which helps with long fiction.
- Other apps can use it as their backend through KoboldAI, OpenAI or Ollama-compatible endpoints.
Where it falls short
- Models are not included: you must find and download a GGUF model separately and pick settings for your hardware.
- Larger models need serious RAM or VRAM, and speed on CPU alone will be slow for big models.
- Output quality depends entirely on the model you load; the software does not supply one.
- AGPL-3.0 applies, and bundled components keep their own licences (MIT, Apache 2.0), so redistributing modified builds needs care.
Pricing & license
Free under AGPL-3.0, and the project's pages show no paid plan. Your cost is the computer and whatever model files you download.
Open remote AI-training roles
768 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 14, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Do I need a graphics card?
No. The README says a dedicated GPU is optional and that model size and context length determine the memory you need.
Is a model included?
No. Models must be obtained separately; the launcher offers templates and the README points to example GGUF models.
Which fake site should I avoid?
The README warns that koboldcpp.com is a malicious fake site and that official downloads are on GitHub Releases and koboldcpp.net.
