Can someone point me in the right direction of what model(s) to look at for a newer user?
A new user with a MacBook Pro M5 Pro and 48GB of RAM is seeking advice on which local models to explore. They are new to the local AI space and are looking for alternatives to expensive frontier/cloud models. The user acknowledges that more RAM might have been beneficial but notes they got a good deal on their device before prices increased.
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PublishedOffset at this time: UTC+0Sep 12, 2026, 20:33 UTC
IngestedOffset at this time: UTC+0Sep 13, 2026, 15:01 UTC
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- Sep 12, 2026, 20:33
- Ingested
- Sep 13, 2026, 15:01
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I have a full M5 Pro Macbook Pro with 48GB of RAM, I'm just getting into this local space. Like many of you, the costs of using frontier/cloud models is getting kinda silly.
I don't have any insane needs or automation projects. I just want the best general use model, to keep private info, to chat without guardrails and other odd quirks preferably.
I prefer it also be a MLX interface if that's a thing. I want to avoid ollama, I've dabbled in LM Studio but didn't love it.
Just looking for ideas, thanks all.
(yeah I know I should have gotten more RAM probably but I got a good deal on this device before prices skyrocketed)