LanceDB vs Chroma: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between LanceDB and Chroma 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:
LanceDB
Serverless vector database for AI applications
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need vector databases features specifically
- • LanceDB is an open-source vector database for AI and ML applications
- • It stores and queries embeddings with serverless deployment options
Chroma
Open-source vector database for AI applications
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • 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
| At a Glance |  LanceDB |  Chroma |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Vector Databases | Managed Databases |
Rating | 82/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | LanceDB | Chroma |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vector DatabasesAI Model Deployment | Managed DatabasesVector Databases |
How LanceDB and Chroma Compare
LanceDB
Serverless vector database for AI applications
Free · 82/100 score
Chroma
Open-source vector database for AI applications
Paid · 84/100 score
LanceDB is a vector databases tool. Chroma is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
LanceDB is free. Chroma is paid.
Go with: LanceDB
Want the highest-rated option?
LanceDB: 82/100. Chroma: 84/100.
Go with: Chroma
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Chroma
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
LanceDB is free. Chroma is paid. Go with LanceDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
LanceDB is a vector databases tool. Chroma is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Chroma scores higher: 84/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Chroma
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 82
- Our pick for this comparison
LanceDB
- Completely free
- Better fit for vector databases
The Bottom Line
Chroma (84/100) is our pick. That said, LanceDB is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LanceDB or Chroma better?
Chroma scores 84/100 in our evaluation. LanceDB is free and Chroma is paid.
What are LanceDB and Chroma used for?
LanceDB: Serverless vector database for AI applications. Chroma: Open-source vector database for AI applications.
What does LanceDB cost vs Chroma?
LanceDB is completely free. Chroma is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.