An (Opinionated) Checklist to Choose a Vector Database
Blog post from Pinecone
In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, vector databases have become essential for supporting Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) and addressing AI hallucinations. The proliferation of vector databases following the release of ChatGPT has made choosing the right solution a complex task for companies embracing Generative AI. Key considerations for selecting a vector database include technology, developer experience, and enterprise readiness. The technology should ensure high performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency, with features like live index updates, hybrid search capabilities, and metadata filtering. A positive developer experience involves easy onboarding, comprehensive documentation, and compatibility with cloud services and LLMs. Enterprise readiness encompasses robust security, compliance, technical support, and monitoring capabilities, ensuring uninterrupted service and optimal performance. With the vector database space still in its nascent stages, companies are encouraged to carefully evaluate their options to stay ahead in the AI race.