I've tested so many desktop AI tools, but Hermes with Ollama is my new favorite - here's why - ZDNET

Our gifting experts are obsessively searching for holiday gifts that are unique, thoughtful and suitable for any budget. Local AI is the way to go, and Hermes with open-source Ollama is my preferred setup right now. Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. AI isn’t everyone’s favorite topic these days, and I totally get it. I avoid the most heated issues by using AI only for research (and checking for accuracy as I go). I also use locally installed AI to avoid straining the electric grid and to retain my privacy. In the grand scheme of things, AI isn’t going away and does have valid uses, such as in the medical and scientific fields. Because of that capability, I cover AI because it’s something people want to talk about, and I’m on a mission to ensure everyone knows that locally installed AI is the way to go. To that end, I test many apps that can be installed on machines in my local network. Also: Want local vibe coding? This AI stack might replace Claude Code and Codex – for free A relatively unknown app called Hermes came to my attention recently — and when I noticed that it can be used with the open-source tool Ollama, you can bet I jumped on it. Hermes isn’t just