kitio.aiMLX vs KoboldCpp
A side-by-side look at pricing plans, free tiers, features, pros and cons, updated for 2026. MLX starts at Free and KoboldCpp starts at Free. Check both pricing pages for current plans.
At a glance
Best for
Category
Pricing model
Starting price
Free plan
Made by
Based in
Rating
Key features
- Unified memory use
- NumPy-like API
- mlx-lm for LLMs
- LoRA fine-tuning
- Swift bindings
- Single executable
- Story and chat modes
- World info and memory
- Image and speech features
- Compatible APIs
| Feature | MLX | KoboldCpp |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Apple's array framework for running and training models on Apple Silicon | Single-file local LLM runner with a storytelling web interface |
| Category | Models & APIs | Models & APIs |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes, fully free | Yes, fully free |
| Made by | Apple | LostRuins |
| Based in | United States | – |
| Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Key features |
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Pricing compared
MLX starts at Free and KoboldCpp starts at Free. Check both pricing pages for current plans.
Free plan
Cheapest paid plan
Top plan
Free trial
Prices in USD, checked Oct 28, 2026 or later. Plans change often, so confirm on each tool's site before you buy.
Pros and cons
MLX
- Fast on Apple Silicon
- Runs big models on high-RAM Macs
- Simple Python API
- Mac only
- Smaller ecosystem than PyTorch
- Some models need conversion
KoboldCpp
- No install needed
- Great for creative writing
- Works with SillyTavern
- Dated interface
- Fewer production features
- Mostly community support
Which one should you choose?
Choose MLX if you want:
- Fast on Apple Silicon
- Runs big models on high-RAM Macs
- Simple Python API
Watch out: mac only.
Choose KoboldCpp if you want:
- No install needed
- Great for creative writing
- Works with SillyTavern
Watch out: dated interface.
MLX vs KoboldCpp FAQ
What is the difference between MLX and KoboldCpp?
MLX: Apple's array framework for running and training models on Apple Silicon. KoboldCpp: Single-file local LLM runner with a storytelling web interface. Both are models & apis tools.
Is MLX or KoboldCpp cheaper?
MLX starts at Free and KoboldCpp starts at Free. Check both pricing pages for current plans.
Do MLX and KoboldCpp have free plans?
MLX: Yes, fully free. KoboldCpp: Yes, fully free.
Who makes MLX?
MLX is made by Apple, based in United States.
Who makes KoboldCpp?
KoboldCpp is made by LostRuins.
Which should I choose, MLX or KoboldCpp?
Choose MLX if you value fast on apple silicon and runs big models on high-ram macs. Choose KoboldCpp if you value no install needed and great for creative writing.