RAM by quantization
Lower quantization = less RAM but lower quality. Q4_K_M is the recommended sweet spot for most users.
| Format | Bits | RAM | Quality | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q3_K_M | 3 | 15.5 GB | Moderate | Runs OK |
| Q4_K_MREC | 4 | 19.0 GB | Good | Runs OK |
| Q5_K_M | 5 | 22.5 GB | Good | After cleanup |
| Q6_K | 6 | 26.0 GB | Excellent | After cleanup |
| Q8_0 | 8 | 34.0 GB | Excellent | Tight fit |
| F16 | 16 | 65.0 GB | Lossless | Needs high RAM |
Which Mac can run DeepSeek R1 Distill 32B?
Based on the recommended Q4_K_M quantization. You need RAM for both the model and your running apps — DevPulse calculates this for you. No CUDA installation. No driver hell. Just Apple Silicon doing what Jensen charges $30K for.