OpenClaw GPU Hosting 2026: When You Actually Need a GPU

OpenClaw does not require a GPU. A GPU only matters when you separately run a local model. Compare RTX 4090 and A100 hosting prices and pick the right path.

Does OpenClaw need a GPU?

No. The Gateway is a normal server process. A GPU is only relevant when you separately run a local model server and configure it as the model provider.

GPU Tiers and Listed Prices

RunPod RTX 3090 at $0.22/hr and RTX 4090 at $0.44/hr both list 24 GB VRAM. An A100 80 GB is $1.89/hr and an H100 80 GB is $2.99/hr. Pick the tier by the VRAM your model weights need.

How a GPU Deployment Fits Together

Confirm you really are running a local model
Rent GPU capacity with enough VRAM
Run your local model server on the GPU host
Install the Gateway from docs.openclaw.ai/install
Point OpenClaw at your model server
Keep the Gateway private and mount persistent storage