Zilliz vs Qdrant: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zilliz and Qdrant 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:
Zilliz
Cloud vector database for AI
Best for you if:
- • 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
Qdrant
Vector database for similarity search
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need vector databases features specifically
- • Qdrant is a vector database for AI similarity search applications
- • It stores and queries high-dimensional vectors with filtering support
| At a Glance |  Zilliz |  Qdrant |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Managed Databases | Vector Databases |
Rating | 84/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Zilliz | Qdrant |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Managed DatabasesVector Databases | Vector DatabasesAI Model Deployment |
How Zilliz and Qdrant Compare
Zilliz
Cloud vector database for AI
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Qdrant
Vector database for similarity search
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Zilliz is a managed databases tool. Qdrant is in vector databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zilliz
Want the highest-rated option?
Zilliz: 84/100. Qdrant: 88/100.
Go with: Qdrant
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Qdrant
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Zilliz is a managed databases tool. Qdrant is in vector databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Qdrant scores higher: 88/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Qdrant
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Zilliz
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
Qdrant (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zilliz or Qdrant better?
Qdrant scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Zilliz and Qdrant used for?
Zilliz: Cloud vector database for AI. Qdrant: Vector database for similarity search.
What does Zilliz cost vs Qdrant?
Zilliz is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Qdrant is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.