Change Lm Studio Download Directory [verified]

If you already have downloaded models in the old directory and want to move them:

LM Studio is a popular desktop application for running large language models (LLMs) locally. By default, it downloads models to your system drive (usually C: on Windows or ~/.cache/lm-studio on Mac/Linux). If you have limited space on your main drive, you can change the download location to a secondary hard drive, an external SSD, or a dedicated models folder. change lm studio download directory

If you have already downloaded models and don't want to mess with settings or re-organize files, you can use a Directory Junction (Symlink). This makes the computer think a folder is in the old location, but it actually lives on a different drive. If you already have downloaded models in the

| Issue | Solution | |--------|----------| | | Ensure your user account has write access to the new folder. On Windows, avoid Program Files or system-protected directories. | | Drive not showing (macOS/Linux) | Your external drive must be mounted before opening LM Studio. Remount and restart the app. | | Models not appearing after moving | Double-check that you moved the exact folder structure (e.g., models/author/model_name/ ). Restart LM Studio. | | "Change" button is grayed out | You may have a model currently loaded. Unload all models from memory first. | If you have already downloaded models and don't

: After moving the path, LM Studio may need to re-index existing files to recognize models already stored in the new location. Advanced Workarounds: The Home Pointer and Symbolic Links

Once inside the Settings window: