langchain vs llama_index
Updated
Short answer
Both are free, open-source frameworks for building LLM apps. langchain is more popular (148k vs 53k GitHub stars). Pick langchain if you want the bigger community (148k vs 53k GitHub stars).
Side by side
 langchain |  llama_index | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Dev tools & SDKs | Agents & automation |
| GitHub stars | 148,446 | 52,663 |
| Stars this week | +322 | +83 |
| Last update | today | 2d ago |
| License | MIT | MIT |
| Commercial use | ||
| Language | Python | Python |
| Runs on Mac | ||
| Runs without a GPU | ||
| GPU memory | Not stated | Not stated |
| Needs a paid API key | Not stated | Not stated |
| Self-hostable | ||
| Trending this week | – | – |
Hardware details are as stated by each project and may be incomplete.
Choose langchain if…
The agent engineering platform.
- you want the bigger community (148k vs 53k GitHub stars)
- you want the one with more momentum right now (+322 stars this week)
Choose llama_index if…
LlamaIndex is the document processing platform for AI
- its features fit your workflow better; check its README
FAQ
Is langchain better than llama_index?
Both are free, open-source frameworks for building LLM apps. langchain is more popular (148k vs 53k GitHub stars). Pick langchain if you want the bigger community (148k vs 53k GitHub stars).
Which is better for commercial use, langchain or llama_index?
Both use permissive licenses (MIT and MIT), so both allow commercial use.
Do langchain and llama_index run on a Mac?
Neither project states Mac support. Check their install guides before you start.
Are langchain and llama_index free?
Yes. Both are open source and free to use.