Turbopuffer vs LanceDB: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Turbopuffer and LanceDB 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:
- • Serverless vector and full-text search database.
- • Built on object storage for 10x cost savings and extreme scalability.
LanceDB
Serverless vector database for AI applications
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • LanceDB is an open-source vector database for AI and ML applications
- • It stores and queries embeddings with serverless deployment options
| At a Glance |  Turbopuffer |  LanceDB |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Vector Databases | Vector Databases |
Rating | —/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Turbopuffer | LanceDB |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vector DatabasesServerless Databases | Vector DatabasesAI Model Deployment |
How Turbopuffer and LanceDB Compare
Turbopuffer
Serverless vector and full-text search engine built on object storage for AI applications.
Paid
LanceDB
Serverless vector database for AI applications
Free · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
LanceDB is free. Turbopuffer is paid.
Go with: LanceDB
Want the highest-rated option?
LanceDB scores 82/100. Turbopuffer is unrated.
Go with: LanceDB
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: LanceDB
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Turbopuffer is paid. LanceDB is free. Go with LanceDB if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are vector databases tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
LanceDB
- Higher score: 82/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Turbopuffer
The Bottom Line
LanceDB (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turbopuffer or LanceDB better?
LanceDB scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Turbopuffer is paid and LanceDB is free.
What are Turbopuffer and LanceDB used for?
Turbopuffer: Serverless vector and full-text search engine built on object storage for AI applications.. LanceDB: Serverless vector database for AI applications.
What does Turbopuffer cost vs LanceDB?
Turbopuffer is a paid tool. LanceDB is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.