VAST Data vs Zilliz
Which Infrastructure AI tool is better in 2026?
VAST Data
Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure
Zilliz
Fully managed vector database for AI, built by the creators of Milvus
Side-by-side
VAST Data is the more established option (raised $2.4B), but Zilliz is cheaper to start.
| Metric | VAST Data | Zilliz |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Unifying software layer for AI infrastructure | Fully managed vector database for AI, built by the creators of Milvus |
| Foundedi | 2016🏆 | 2017 |
| HQi | US | Redwood City, United States |
| Employeesi | 201-500🏆 | 200 |
| Neuron scorei | 88🏆 | 75 |
| Total fundingi | $2.4B🏆 | $113M |
| Latest roundi | Series F · Apr 2026 | series_b · Aug 2022 |
| Valuationi | $30B🏆 | — |
| Cheapest paid plani | — | Pricing not disclosed🏆 |
| Free plani | ✗ | ✓ |
| Free triali | ✗ | ✓ |
| Top tier pricei | Enterprise · Contact sales | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | 1 published plans | Free |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for VAST Data and Zilliz.
| Capability | VAST Data | 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 VAST Data
- Has raised more capital ($2.4B vs $113M)
- Higher Neuron score (88 vs 75)
- More mature (2016)
🔵 Strengths of Zilliz
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
- Newer company (2017)
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 VAST Data if you want the most established option — it has raised $2.4B, 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
VAST Data vs Zilliz — which is better?
It depends on your priority. VAST Data has raised more capital and is the more established option; Zilliz is cheaper to start. See the side-by-side table above.
Is VAST Data cheaper than Zilliz?
No — Zilliz's cheapest paid plan is Free, while VAST Data's is Enterprise · Contact sales.
Do VAST Data and Zilliz offer free plans?
VAST Data: Paid only. Zilliz: Yes, has a free plan.
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