LanceDB vs Zilliz: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between LanceDB and Zilliz 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
Zilliz
Cloud vector database for AI
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Zilliz is the company behind Milvus vector database with managed cloud
- • It provides enterprise vector search for AI applications
| At a Glance |  LanceDB |  Zilliz |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Vector Databases | Managed Databases |
Rating | 82/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | LanceDB | Zilliz |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| 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 Zilliz Compare
LanceDB
Serverless vector database for AI applications
Free · 82/100 score
Zilliz
Cloud vector database for AI
Free tier available · 84/100 score
LanceDB is a vector databases tool. Zilliz is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
LanceDB is free. Zilliz is freemium.
Go with: LanceDB
Want the highest-rated option?
LanceDB: 82/100. Zilliz: 84/100.
Go with: Zilliz
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zilliz
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
LanceDB is free. Zilliz is freemium. Go with LanceDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
LanceDB is a vector databases tool. Zilliz is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zilliz scores higher: 84/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Zilliz
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
LanceDB
- Completely free
- Better fit for vector databases
The Bottom Line
Zilliz (84/100) is our pick. That said, LanceDB is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LanceDB or Zilliz better?
Zilliz scores 84/100 in our evaluation. LanceDB is free and Zilliz is freemium.
What are LanceDB and Zilliz used for?
LanceDB: Serverless vector database for AI applications. Zilliz: Cloud vector database for AI.
What does LanceDB cost vs Zilliz?
LanceDB is completely free. Zilliz is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.