Google

Gemma 3 12B

High quality 12B model. Excellent for iPad Pro and Mac.

12B parametersgemma3gemma32K context7.3GB - 12.15GB VRAM

About This Model

Gemma 3 12B is a large language model developed by Google, featuring 12 billion parameters and an impressive context length of 32,768 tokens. This model excels in generating high-quality text across a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to, creative writing, summarization, and question-answering. Its extensive context window allows it to maintain coherence over longer passages, making it particularly suitable for tasks that require deep understanding and long-term memory.

In its size class, Gemma 3 12B holds its own, offering a balance between performance and resource efficiency. While it may not outperform the largest models in terms of raw capabilities, it provides a compelling trade-off between computational demands and output quality. The model supports quantization options like Q4_K_M and Q8_0, which help reduce the VRAM requirements to a range of 7.3 to 12.2 GB, making it feasible for users with mid-range GPUs. Ideal for researchers, developers, and enthusiasts who need a powerful yet manageable LLM, Gemma 3 12B is a solid choice for those looking to deploy advanced text generation capabilities on local hardware without the need for top-tier GPUs.

Check Your Hardware

See which quantizations of Gemma 3 12B your hardware can run.

Quantization Options

QuantizationBitsFile SizeVRAM NeededRAM NeededQuality
Q4_K_M4.56.799 GB7.3 GB7.8 GB
85%
Q8_0811.651 GB12.15 GB12.65 GB
98%

See It In Action

Real model outputs generated via RunThisModel.com — watch responses stream in real time.

Llama 3.3 70B responding...

Outputs generated by real AI models via RunThisModel.com. Generation speed shown is from cloud inference. Local speeds vary by hardware — check your device.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much VRAM do I need to run Gemma 3 12B?

Gemma 3 12B requires 7.3GB VRAM minimum with Q4_K_M quantization. For full precision, you need 12.15GB VRAM.

What is the best quantization for Gemma 3 12B?

Q4_K_M offers the best balance of quality and VRAM usage. Q8_0 is near-lossless if you have enough VRAM.