ArangoDB

Overview

ArangoDB is a multi-model database that natively supports graph, document, and key-value data models in a single engine. This unique approach allows developers to use the best data model for each use case without managing multiple databases. ArangoDB uses AQL (ArangoDB Query Language), a SQL-like language that works across all data models.

For AI applications, ArangoDB's multi-model nature is powerful for combining structured documents, vector embeddings, and relationship graphs in one system. This makes it excellent for RAG applications that need both document storage and graph-based retrieval enhancement.

Key Features

**Multi-Model**: Graph, document, key-value in one database

**AQL**: Unified query language across models

**Graph Analytics**: Built-in graph algorithms

**Transactions**: ACID across all models

**Sharding**: Horizontal scaling

**Full-Text Search**: Built-in search capabilities

**Geospatial**: Location-based queries

**ArangoSearch**: Advanced search and ranking

When to Use ArangoDB

ArangoDB is ideal for:

Applications needing multiple data models

RAG with both documents and knowledge graphs

Reducing database complexity

Teams wanting flexibility in data modeling

Full-stack applications with varied data needs

Projects evolving data model requirements

Pros

Multi-model reduces infrastructure complexity

Unified query language (AQL)

Good performance across models

Open-source with commercial option

Flexible data modeling

Good documentation

Active development

Can replace multiple databases

Cons

Smaller community than specialized databases

Learning curve for AQL

Not best-in-class for any single model

Less polished than pure graph databases

Limited cloud offering

Smaller ecosystem

Enterprise features require license

Less well-known than alternatives

Pricing

**Community Edition**: Free, open-source

**ArangoDB Cloud**: Free tier + pay-as-you-go

**Enterprise**: Custom pricing

**Self-Hosted**: Free community or paid enterprise