Buying and compatibility FAQ
Know what you’re getting with PortableMind: compatibility, what ships on the USB, and how to pick the right edition.
Compatibility
Which OS versions?
Windows 10/11 and macOS 12+ are supported.
RAM requirements?
8 GB minimum; 16 GB recommended for standard preset.
Does it need a GPU?
No. PortableMind is tuned for CPU use.
What’s included
What ships on the USB?
Preloaded models, launchers for Windows/macOS, presets, prompt packs, and offline guides.
Do I need an account?
No accounts or API keys are required.
Are updates included?
Optional updates are provided; apply them on your schedule.
Choosing editions
Travel vs. desk use?
Both use the same USB; consider a second drive if you swap machines often.
Low-spec hardware?
Use the low-spec preset; the included models are tuned for 8 GB RAM machines.
Need more capacity?
Back up and clone to a larger drive if required, keeping the original as a reference.
Ordering and support
How fast does it ship?
See /buy for current shipping windows; typically next business day in stock.
Return policy?
Refer to /buy; hardware is warrantied, and support can help with setup.
Support included?
Yes. Keep terminal logs if you contact support; updates are optional.
More resources
Related guides
AI USB stick: what it is and how to pick one
What an AI USB stick actually is, the three different products the name covers, the hardware it needs, and a straight buy-vs-DIY answer — with a checklist for picking one.
Air-gapped AI USB best practices
How to use an offline AI USB in sensitive environments: updates, model sourcing, and safe handling without the cloud.
Battery-optimized offline AI on laptops
Run offline AI without draining your battery. PortableMind includes presets and tips to keep power use low while staying offline.