Added Oct 28, 2026
Jan
FreeOpen-source ChatGPT alternative that runs models fully offline
What is Jan?
Jan is a free, open-source desktop app for running local AI models offline on your computer, with optional connections to cloud APIs. It is made by Menlo Research and suits people who want private, local chat with full control over data.
Jan downloads and runs models through llama.cpp, offers a local API server compatible with OpenAI clients, and supports MCP tools and assistants. Everything is stored locally, and no account is required.
It runs on macOS, Windows and Linux, including a Flathub package. The team also trains small open models of its own that are designed for local agent and search tasks.
Features
- Offline model runs
- Local API server
- MCP tools
- Cloud API connections
- No account needed
Tags
Releases
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Organization
Menlo Research
Listed by kitio.ai · unverified owner
Pricing
- Pricing model
- Free
- Paid options from
- 100% free
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Fully offline and private
- Free and open source
- Clean interface
Cons
- Fewer features than LM Studio
- Updates can change settings
- Needs decent hardware
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Q&A
What is Jan?
Jan is a free, open-source desktop app for running local AI models offline on your computer, with optional connections to cloud APIs. It is made by Menlo Research and suits people who want private, local chat with full control over data.
How much does Jan cost?
Jan is 100% free.
Is there a free version of Jan?
Yes. Jan is completely free to use.
What are the main features of Jan?
Offline model runs, Local API server, MCP tools, Cloud API connections, No account needed.
Who makes Jan?
Jan is made by Menlo Research.
What are the best alternatives to Jan?
Popular alternatives include Ollama, llama.cpp, LM Studio.