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Ollama vs PygmalionAI
Ollama edges PygmalionAI on our editorial score (4.3 vs 3.9), but the two are close on features — Ollama is cheaper at Free, so default to it unless you prefer PygmalionAI's branding.
0| Ollama | PygmalionAI | |
|---|---|---|
| Editor score | 4.3 / 5 | 3.9 / 5 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Price band | Free | Free |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Price detail | Free and open-source (2026-09-30). | Free open-source project; the web chat is free and you can plug in your own API keys or run local models. |
| Adult content | No adult mode | Optional mature mode |
| Voice | No | No |
| Images | No | No |
| Video | No | No |
| Memory | No | No |
| Custom characters | Yes | Yes |
| Companion types | Any character | Any character |
| Platforms | Desktop | Web |
| Runs locally | No | No |
Ollama — our take
The de-facto local model runtime: one command to run open models, free and open-source.
- One-command model setup
- Huge model library
- Open-source and free
PygmalionAI — our take
The open-source flag behind the tavern scene: free web chat, community cards, plug in your own model.
- Free unlimited chat
- Large community card collection with a card creator
- No lock-in: import and export freely
Ollama vs PygmalionAI — common questions
Which is cheaper, Ollama or PygmalionAI?
They cost the same on our recorded numbers (Free).
Which one has a free tier?
Both do — you can try either without paying.
Which remembers conversations better?
Neither carries context between sessions — both reset, which is worth knowing before you pick either.
Which handles adult content differently?
Ollama: No adult mode. PygmalionAI: Optional mature mode. This directory is SFW — we record whether a mature mode exists so you know before signing up, and we describe no explicit material.