HelixDB
HelixDB: Open-source graph and vector retrieval with self-hosted control for developer-led AI projects. Ranked #35 of 39 in Graph Databases by our editors (5.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for developers testing graph-plus-vector retrieval.
At a glance
- Editor score5.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forDevelopers testing graph-plus-vector retrieval
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- DeploymentSelf_hosted
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Combines graph traversal with vector similarity search and indexes
- HelixQL provides declarative queries for graph and vector operations
- Self-hosted source code supports Linux, macOS, Windows, and API access
Where it doesn't
- Self-hosted deployment leaves installation and operations to the adopting team
- Applications must use HelixQL for declarative graph and vector queries
- Its focus is graph-plus-vector retrieval rather than broad database workloads
Our verdict on HelixDB
HelixDB is an open-source graph-vector database for applications that need relationship data and semantic retrieval together. It targets developers building retrieval-augmented generation systems, knowledge graphs, recommendation systems, and other AI applications that connect entities with vector-based meaning. The project is implemented in Rust and is available as source code for self-hosted deployment, with HTTP/API access for application integration.
Its standout capability is combined graph and vector retrieval. HelixDB stores and traverses graph data, maintains vector similarity indexes, and exposes HelixQL as a declarative query language for these operations. That combination can support workflows where an application first follows relationships, then applies semantic similarity, or uses both signals in one retrieval flow. The design fits teams testing graph-plus-vector patterns without separating those workloads across different database systems.
Deployment is deliberately self-hosted across Linux, macOS, and Windows, so teams retain control over where the database runs but must handle installation and ongoing operations themselves. Documentation and community channels form the support path, which suits developers comfortable learning from project resources. Choose HelixDB when open-source control, graph traversal, vector search, and API access are central requirements. Consider an alternative if you need vendor-managed deployment, a broader database workload focus, or a different query language as your standard.
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HelixDB pricing
HelixDB fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Deployment | Self_hosted |
| Query languages | HelixQL |
| ACID transactions | Not verified |
| Graph algorithms | Not verified |
| Vector search | Yes |
| Included storage | Not verified |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Support | Docs, Community |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | helix-db.com |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to HelixDB
- Neo4jA broad graph platform spanning managed cloud, self-managed deployments, analytics, and AI.9.4
- Amazon NeptuneA managed AWS graph service with broad query, resilience, analytics, and AI connectivity.9.2
- Apache HugeGraphA self-hosted graph platform combining transactional storage, analytics, and graph-AI tooling.9.0
See all HelixDB alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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