How much VRAM does gemma 3 27b it need?

gemma 3 27b it (27B parameters) requires approximately 27.1 GB of memory with Q4_K_M quantization.

What is the best quantization for gemma 3 27b it?

The recommended quantization for gemma 3 27b it is Q4_K_M, which balances quality and memory efficiency.

Can it run?

Yes, MacBook Pro M3 Max 48GB can run gemma 3 27b it with a C grade (Runs well). Expected decode speed: 15.8 tok/s.

CUsable

Runs well

Using Q4_K_M in Ollama

Capabilities:

Fit status

Runs well

Decode

15.8 tok/s

TTFT

12264 ms

Safe context

20K

Memory

27.1 GB / 34.6 GB

Weights16.5 GB

KV Cache4.2 GB

Runtime1.2 GB

Headroom5.2 GB

Workload	Grade	Fit	Decode	TTFT	Context
Agentic Coding	C	Tight fit	14.6 tok/s	19325 ms	35K
Chat	C	Runs well	14.6 tok/s	7247 ms	11K
Coding	C	Runs well	15.8 tok/s	12264 ms	20K
RAG	C	Tight fit	14.6 tok/s	24156 ms	35K
Reasoning	C	Runs well	14.6 tok/s	15701 ms	20K

How gemma 3 27b it (27B params) fits at each quantization level on MacBook Pro M3 Max 48GB (34.6 GB usable).

Quant	Bits	VRAM	Quality	Fit
Q2_K	2	10.5 GB	Low	D36
Q3_K_S	3	13.2 GB	Low	D38
NVFP4	4

Upgrade options

Mac Studio M2 Ultra 64GBBudget pick

C28.2 tok/s decode

~$3,999 MSRP

Mac Studio M1 Ultra 64GBBest value

C26.7 tok/s decode

~$3,999 MSRP

NVIDIA A100 40GBBiggest leap