Turbopuffer vs CockroachDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Turbopuffer and CockroachDB 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:
Turbopuffer
Serverless vector and full-text search engine built on object storage for AI applications.
Best for you if:
- • You need vector databases features specifically
- • Serverless vector and full-text search database.
- • Built on object storage for 10x cost savings and extreme scalability.
CockroachDB
Distributed SQL database built for cloud
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • CockroachDB is a distributed SQL database that survives failures and scales horizontally
- • It provides PostgreSQL compatibility with automatic sharding and multi-region deployment
| At a Glance |  Turbopuffer |  CockroachDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Vector Databases | Managed Databases |
Rating | —/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Turbopuffer | CockroachDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vector DatabasesServerless Databases | Managed DatabasesServerless Databases |
How Turbopuffer and CockroachDB Compare
Turbopuffer
Serverless vector and full-text search engine built on object storage for AI applications.
Paid
CockroachDB
Distributed SQL database built for cloud
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Turbopuffer is a vector databases tool. CockroachDB is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
CockroachDB has a free tier. Turbopuffer is paid only.
Go with: CockroachDB
Want the highest-rated option?
CockroachDB scores 88/100. Turbopuffer is unrated.
Go with: CockroachDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: CockroachDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Turbopuffer is paid. CockroachDB is freemium. CockroachDB lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Turbopuffer is a vector databases tool. CockroachDB is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
CockroachDB
- Higher score: 88/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Turbopuffer
- Better fit for vector databases
The Bottom Line
CockroachDB (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turbopuffer or CockroachDB better?
CockroachDB scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Turbopuffer is paid and CockroachDB is freemium.
What are Turbopuffer and CockroachDB used for?
Turbopuffer: Serverless vector and full-text search engine built on object storage for AI applications.. CockroachDB: Distributed SQL database built for cloud.
What does Turbopuffer cost vs CockroachDB?
Turbopuffer is a paid tool. CockroachDB is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.