Running GitHub Copilot CLI Offline with Local Models: A CPU-Only Reality Check

This article details an experiment running GitHub Copilot CLI offline using local language models on a CPU-only Microsoft Dev Box. The author tests Ollama and LM Studio as local providers, evaluating models like qwen3.5, llama3.2, and gemma4 for .NET development tasks such as creating solutions, building projects, and running tests. Key findings include that Ollama works for basic prompts but struggles with long-context agentic workflows, while LM Studio performs better as an OpenAI-compatible provider. The article concludes that CPU-only local Copilot CLI is feasible for guided pair-programming but not for fully autonomous workflows, providing practical insights for developers exploring offline AI-assisted coding.