Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

LangChain vs LlamaIndex: Full Comparison (2026)

LangChain is the framework for building llm-powered applications. LlamaIndex is data framework for building llm applications over your data. Use the breakdown below to find the right fit for your needs.

LangChain

LangChain

Free
vs

LlamaIndex

LlamaIndex

Free
This page presents factual information sourced from publicly available vendor documentation and product pages. AIHub does not endorse either product. The right tool depends on your specific use case, team, and requirements — we recommend evaluating both tools directly before making a decision.

Side-by-Side Overview

Pricing Model
LangChain: FreeLlamaIndex: Free
API Access
LangChain: AvailableLlamaIndex: Not available
Platforms
LangChain: Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, LangGraph Platform (deployment), LangSmith (observability)LlamaIndex: Web
Integrations
LangChain: 8 integrationsLlamaIndex: —
Vendor
LangChain: LangChainLlamaIndex: LlamaIndex
Category
LangChain: FrameworksLlamaIndex: Frameworks
Launch
LangChain: Oct 2022LlamaIndex: —

About LangChain

LangChain provides abstractions for chaining LLM calls, integrating tools and memory, building agents, and connecting to data sources. Available in Python and JavaScript.

Designed For

  • RAG applications
  • AI agents
  • Document Q&A
  • Chatbots
Full LangChain details

About LlamaIndex

LlamaIndex (formerly GPT Index) simplifies connecting custom data sources to LLMs. Provides data connectors, indexing strategies, and query engines for building RAG applications.

Designed For

  • RAG over documents
  • Structured data querying
  • Multi-agent systems
  • Knowledge bases
Full LlamaIndex details

Strengths & Limitations

LangChain

Strengths

  • Large ecosystem
  • Many integrations
  • Active community

Limitations

  • Steep learning curve
  • Over-abstracted
  • Rapid API changes

LlamaIndex

Strengths

  • Data-focused
  • Easy RAG setup
  • Many connectors

Limitations

  • Less agent-focused than LangChain
  • Learning curve

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LangChain and LlamaIndex?

LangChain is the framework for building llm-powered applications, while LlamaIndex is data framework for building llm applications over your data. LangChain is designed for LLM app developers, RAG system builders; LlamaIndex is designed for Frameworks. The right fit depends on your specific requirements.

How do the pricing models compare?

LangChain is available under a Free model. LlamaIndex is available under a Free model. LangChain's entry tier starts at Free. Always verify pricing on each vendor's official website as it may change.

What integrations does each tool support?

LangChain integrates with All major LLMs, Pinecone, Weaviate, Chroma. LlamaIndex integrates with various tools. Check each vendor's documentation for the full and current list.

How do I choose between LangChain and LlamaIndex?

Consider your team's technical requirements, budget, existing tooling, and use case before deciding. We recommend signing up for free trials or demos of both tools where available, and consulting each vendor's documentation. AIHub provides this comparison for informational purposes only.