Chroma vs SurrealDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Chroma and SurrealDB comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Chroma
Open-source vector database for AI applications
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Chroma is an open-source vector database designed for building AI applications with embeddings
- • It stores and queries vector embeddings for semantic search, RAG, and AI memory applications
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need database builders features specifically
- • Unified multi-model database (document, graph, time-series, relational, geospatial, key-value) for AI applications.
- • Built for AI with integrated vector, full-text, and hybrid search, supporting RAG and Knowledge Graphs.
| At a Glance |  Chroma |  SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Database Builders |
Rating | 84/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Chroma | SurrealDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesVector Databases | Database BuildersManaged Databases |
How Chroma and SurrealDB Compare
Chroma
Open-source vector database for AI applications
Paid · 84/100 score
SurrealDB
The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development.
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Chroma is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SurrealDB has a free tier. Chroma is paid only.
Go with: SurrealDB
Want the highest-rated option?
Chroma: 84/100. SurrealDB: 80/100.
Go with: Chroma
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Chroma
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Chroma is paid. SurrealDB is freemium. SurrealDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Chroma is a managed databases tool. SurrealDB is in database builders. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Chroma scores higher: 84/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Chroma
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 80
- Our pick for this comparison
SurrealDB
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for database builders
The Bottom Line
Chroma (84/100) is our pick. SurrealDB has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chroma or SurrealDB better?
Chroma scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Chroma is paid and SurrealDB is freemium.
What are Chroma and SurrealDB used for?
Chroma: Open-source vector database for AI applications. SurrealDB: The ultimate multi-model database for AI agents, simplifying your stack and accelerating development..
What does Chroma cost vs SurrealDB?
Chroma is a paid tool. SurrealDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.