"AI PC" is a marketing term, generally meaning a PC whose processor includes an NPU (neural processing unit) for low-power AI features. Microsoft's Copilot+ PC label requires an NPU of 40+ TOPS (Microsoft Learn: Copilot+ PCs developer guide).
NPU vs GPU for local models
NPUs are efficient for small background tasks (effects, transcription). Most popular local LLM tools run models on the GPU or CPU; how much they use the NPU depends on the app and is changing. For running larger models, memory size and bandwidth matter more than NPU TOPS.
What to buy if local AI is the goal
- A GPU with enough VRAM (GPU guide), or
- A large unified-memory system (mini PCs for AI).
Recommended models: TBD. We list specific AI PCs only once we have verified specs.