Chroma

The simplest embedding DB for prototyping
Vector databaseEmbedding databaseApache-2.0Self-hostedPythonBeginner
🛡 Published security advisories
A high count usually means the project is heavily examined. A low count usually means it is little examined — not that it is safe.
No public activity signals for this tool — it has no open repository we can measure.
OSAI Pulse ⓘ ★★★★★★★★★★ /100 signals tracked
🐳 Docker pulls 📦 PyPI downloads / month 📦 npm downloads / month 🚀 Latest release ·
Visit website →View on GitHub

What is Chroma?

Chroma is a lightweight, developer-friendly embedding database that runs in-process, ideal for prototyping RAG apps with minimal setup.

Why people choose Chroma

Chroma at a glance

CategoryVector database
TypeEmbedding database
LicenseApache-2.0
Runs locallySelf-hosted
Built withPython
Skill levelBeginner
Best fordevelopers prototyping RAG quickly

Open-source alternatives to Chroma

Other open-source vector database tools worth comparing:

QdrantFast Rust-based vector searchWeaviateVector DB with built-in modulesMilvusBillion-scale vector databasepgvectorVector search inside PostgreSQLLanceDBServerless vector DB for AIFAISSThe reference library for similarity searchVespaBig-scale hybrid search and ranking platformpgvectorscaleMake pgvector fast at scaleMarqoVector search with embedding built inUSearchTiny, extremely fast vector index

Chroma head-to-head

Chroma vs QdrantChroma vs WeaviateChroma vs MilvusChroma vs pgvectorChroma vs LanceDBChroma vs FAISSChroma vs VespaChroma vs pgvectorscaleChroma vs MarqoChroma vs USearch

FAQ

Is Chroma free?

Chroma is free and open-source (Apache-2.0 license), so you can use, self-host and modify it at no cost.

Can I run Chroma locally?

Yes. Chroma is designed to run on your own machine or server, keeping your data private.

What is the best alternative to Chroma?

Popular open-source alternatives include Qdrant, Weaviate, Milvus. See the comparisons above to choose.

Explore more open-source AI

Browse the full directory of open-source AI tools, models and projects — updated daily.

Browse all tools →