Mac storage basics · Developer tools

Local AI models are filling my Mac — where are they and how do I remove them?

Short answer: Ollama keeps models in a hidden .ollama folder (ollama list, then ollama rm); LM Studio and similar apps show their models folder in settings and can move it to another drive.

Local AI tools download model files that are often several gigabytes each:

  • Ollama keeps models in a hidden .ollama folder in your home folder; ollama list shows them and ollama rm followed by a model name deletes one.
  • LM Studio and similar apps show a models folder in their settings and let you delete models or change the folder — for example to a fast external drive.

Remove models you no longer use; they can be downloaded again later.

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