ShapedQL vs Vespa: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ShapedQL and Vespa 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
ShapedQL
The real-time retrieval engine for search, feeds, and AI agents, powered by a SQL interface.
Best for you if:
- • Real-time relevance engine for personalized search, feeds, and AI agents.
- • Uses a SQL interface (ShapedQL) to build multi-stage ranking pipelines with ML models.
Vespa
Search and recommendation engine at scale
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Vespa is an open-source big data serving engine for search and AI
- • It handles structured search, recommendation, and machine learning at scale
| At a Glance |  ShapedQL | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Personalization | Personalization |
Rating | —/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | ShapedQL | Vespa |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 107 | 0 |
| Categories | PersonalizationAI Agents | PersonalizationAI Model Deployment |
Understanding the Differences
Both ShapedQL and Vespa solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.ShapedQL positions itself as "the real-time retrieval engine for search, feeds, and ai agents, powered by a sql interface." while Vespafocuses on "search and recommendation engine at scale". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose ShapedQL
ShapedQL makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Vespa
Vespa is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 80/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, ShapedQL lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: ShapedQL
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Vespa is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Vespa
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Vespa
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with ShapedQL, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Vespa higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted ShapedQL more (107 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Vespa Does Better
- Higher overall score (80/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider ShapedQL If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Vespa (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Vespa scores higher in our analysis, but ShapedQL might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ShapedQL or Vespa better?
Based on our analysis, Vespa scores higher with 80/100. ShapedQL isfreemium while Vespa is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from ShapedQL to Vespa easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do ShapedQL and Vespa offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. ShapedQL is freemium with a free tier.Vespa is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.