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Training & fine-tuning

bitsandbytes

A Python library that shrinks AI models' memory needs so they can run and be trained on smaller hardware.

Research-backedNew this week

What it does

Large AI models need a lot of memory. bitsandbytes uses quantization, storing the model's numbers with fewer bits, to cut how much memory they take.

It provides 8-bit and 4-bit versions of model parts and 8-bit training helpers. Its makers say this halves memory for running models without losing quality, and it powers QLoRA, a popular low-memory way to fine-tune models.

It works with PyTorch and supports regular processors and several kinds of graphics cards.

Who it's for

Developers and researchers running or fine-tuning large models on limited hardware.

Can I use it without coding?

Developers only. It is a Python library used inside other code. New to this? Start here.

Can I run it?

Cost
FreeNothing to pay or sign up for.
Runs on
Linux, Windows, Mac
Computer
Works best on a powerful computer or one with a graphics card (GPU)
Privacy
Runs on your own device: your data stays with you
API key
Not needed

Try it

Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?

Before you install

  • Only download from the official GitHub page. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
  • License (MIT): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
  • More on staying safe

Where people are talking about it