Algolia
Hosted search API for websites and apps, priced by usage.
In short
A hosted search service you add to a website or app with API keys and code. There is a free plan with monthly caps; paid plans charge for searches and records beyond what is included.
Made by: Algolia · Where your data lives: On Algolia’s servers, in the US, UK or EU West on the free and Grow plans.
Logo from: algolia.com
Alternatives to Algolia
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Meilisearch
Meili SAS
Open-source search engine with a free Community Edition and a hosted cloud.
Works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Web browser, Your own server · from $20/month
Difficulty: Advanced -
OpenSearch
OpenSearch Software Foundation
Apache-licensed search and analytics engine run by a Linux Foundation project.
Works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Your own server
Difficulty: Advanced -
Typesense
Typesense, Inc.
Fast, open source search for modern applications and smaller teams.
Works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Web browser, Your own server · from $21.60/month
Difficulty: Advanced
Download & install
Every link goes to the official site, an official app store, or the project’s own GitHub releases.
What we could verify
We checked key factual claims and linked to primary sources so you can confirm the details. Last reviewed Oct 3, 2026
Try before you move
A simple way to see if it fits your needs.
- Index a copy of your real dataLoad a realistic sample, including messy records and other languages.
- Run your top queries side by sideCompare the top results for the 20 searches your users make most.
- Count the real costInclude hosting, backups, upgrades and who will look after it.
Good to know
- Adding search to your own site or app needs API keys and code, so plan for a developer’s time. Source: algolia.com