> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.bonzai.sh/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.bonzai.sh/start-here/system-requirements.md).

# Hardware & Model Choices

BonzAI runs AI on your device. A more powerful computer can use larger models or finish media generation faster, but modest computers can still use smaller models and browser features.

## The simple rule

* **8 GB memory:** start with small chat models and lighter browser workflows.
* **16 GB memory:** comfortable everyday chat, lighter image/audio work, and more model choice.
* **24–32 GB memory:** larger language models, stronger image workflows, and better multitasking.
* **High-end Apple Silicon or a dedicated NVIDIA GPU:** best for large models, video, training, and high-resolution media.

## Storage

Models can be much larger than the application.

* Keep at least 10 GB free for a basic setup.
* Keep 50 GB or more free if you want several language and media models.
* Video, training checkpoints, and generation history can use additional space.

BonzAI shows download size before or during model installation. You can remove models you no longer use.

## Choosing a language model

| Your priority                       | Choose                                       |
| ----------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------- |
| Fast answers and low memory use     | Small model                                  |
| Everyday quality                    | Medium model                                 |
| Difficult reasoning or long writing | Larger model that fits your hardware         |
| Programming                         | A coder-focused model                        |
| Unrestricted local experimentation  | A compatible abliterated model, where lawful |

Quantization reduces model size. Lower-bit versions use less memory and usually run faster, but may lose some accuracy. BonzAI's recommendations are designed to make this tradeoff understandable.

## Choosing media settings

* Begin with SD or HD image resolution.
* Use Turbo/Fast while exploring ideas.
* Switch to higher quality once the prompt is working.
* Generate shorter videos before committing to long clips.
* Close unused large models before training or video generation.

## Apple, NVIDIA, and CPU-only devices

BonzAI selects compatible acceleration when available:

* Apple Silicon uses unified memory and Apple GPU acceleration.
* NVIDIA systems use CUDA-capable paths where supported.
* Other systems can use CPU or available fallback acceleration, but large media models may be slow.

The app's hardware information helps you choose; you do not need to configure acceleration manually.