Chroma
Vector databasesAn open-source embedding database designed to be the simplest way to start with RAG.
Chroma is built for developer experience: a few lines of Python and you have a working embedding store, running in-process during development and as a server when you need one.
It is the common starting point for a RAG prototype — the path of least resistance from "I have documents" to "I can query them".
Where it's ideally used
The easiest on-ramp for a RAG prototype, and a fine production store for small to medium workloads.
Where it doesn't fit
Less suited to very large-scale or high-concurrency production retrieval than the heavier dedicated databases.