llama.cpp vs Ollama: Which Local LLM Runner Should You Use

TL;DR - Quick verdict: Ollama for ease-of-use and Docker integration, llama.cpp for maximum control and performance tuning Ollama wins for most self-hosters who want their local LLM running in under 5 minutes. It handles model downloads, GPU acceleration, and exposes a clean OpenAI-compatible API at localhost:11434. Perfect for Docker Compose stacks with Open WebUI, and it integrates seamlessly with tools like Continue.dev for VSCode or n8n workflows. ...

February 21, 2026 · 8 min · Local AI Ops