Jan

AI tools

Free open-source softwareEditorial overview
A CLOSER LOOK

What is Jan?

Jan provides a desktop chat interface for downloaded language models, with local conversations and configurable model connections. It suits people who want an accessible way to explore local AI without starting with a terminal.

Desktop AI chat

Local model execution

Model downloads

Remote provider connections

Is it a good fit?

Best suited to

People exploring private local AI conversations

Before you choose

Performance depends on model and hardware. Connected remote providers may charge separately.

Editorial assessment based on the provider’s published information. Our method

Know what you're signing up for.

The Apache 2.0 software is available without a license subscription and includes Desktop AI chat and Local model execution. Local inference uses your hardware; model licenses, remote API charges, and optional cloud services remain separate.

Local runtime is free; model terms, hardware, and optional cloud or API usage are separate.

Check current official pricing

The useful parts. The trade-offs.

Why consider it

Approachable local chat workflow

Choice of local and remote models

What to keep in mind

Performance depends on model and hardware

Connected remote providers may charge separately

How to use it well

Start with one small model and a short task you can evaluate yourself. Compare its responses against your source material before choosing a larger download. Check which provider a conversation uses, because selecting a remote endpoint changes where prompts are processed and may introduce usage charges.

This is best suited to people exploring private local AI conversations. Before committing a larger project, account for these trade-offs: performance depends on model and hardware; connected remote providers may charge separately.

A few things you might be wondering.

Is Jan free?

The Apache 2.0 software is available without a license subscription and includes Desktop AI chat and Local model execution. Local inference uses your hardware; model licenses, remote API charges, and optional cloud services remain separate.

Does Jan have to send prompts to a cloud model?

No. It can run downloaded models locally.

Are remote API calls included with Jan?

No. Provider accounts and any API charges are separate.

Where can I check the latest prices?

Use the provider link on this page. Billing period, location, team size, promotions, taxes, and optional extras may affect the amount you pay.

How should I compare this tool with alternatives?

Choose tools for the same task, then compare their feature limits, platform support, and total cost for your team. The Compare button helps you keep a shortlist.

Are the user reviews moderated?

Yes. New reviews are submitted for moderation. We show published user reviews separately from the editorial overview and never assign a default user rating.

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