SF Tensor vs Zilliz
Which Infrastructure AI tool is better in 2026?
SF Tensor
Infrastructure for AI labs to focus on research
Zilliz
Fully managed vector database for AI, built by the creators of Milvus
Side-by-side
Zilliz leads on both fronts — more capital raised ($113M) and a lower entry price than SF Tensor.
| Metric | SF Tensor | Zilliz |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Infrastructure for AI labs to focus on research | Fully managed vector database for AI, built by the creators of Milvus |
| Foundedi | 2025 | 2017🏆 |
| HQi | San Francisco, US | Redwood City, United States |
| Employeesi | 1-10 | 200🏆 |
| Neuron scorei | 51 | 75🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $500K | $113M🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Seed · Jan 2025 | series_b · Aug 2022 |
| Valuationi | — | — |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed🏆 |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✓ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✓ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | Pricing not listed | Free |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for SF Tensor and Zilliz.
| Capability | SF Tensor | Zilliz |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✓ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | 5 (Python, Node.js, Go, Java…) |
| Free plan | ✗ | ✓ |
| Free trial | ✗ | ✓ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of SF Tensor
- Newer company (2025)
🔵 Strengths of Zilliz
- Has raised more capital ($113M vs $500K)
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 51)
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
Which should you choose?
Choose Zilliz if price matters most — it starts at Free, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Infrastructure tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose Zilliz if you want the most established option — it has raised $113M, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
Frequently asked questions
SF Tensor vs Zilliz — which is better?
It depends on your priority. SF Tensor is the leaner option; Zilliz is cheaper to start. See the side-by-side table above.
Is SF Tensor cheaper than Zilliz?
No — Zilliz's cheapest paid plan is Free, while SF Tensor's is Pricing not listed.
Do SF Tensor and Zilliz offer free plans?
SF Tensor: Paid only. Zilliz: Yes, has a free plan.
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