What are the benefits of using Azure AI Search over the Vector Stores functionality in Azure AI Foundry?

Question

The Azure AI Foundry list a preview option of functionality called 'Vector stores'. It says it automatically parses, chunks, embeds and stores the files in a vector database that can handle keyword and semantic search. Those stores can then be attached to your Assistants and Threads.

This makes it sound really easy to use, and keeps it all in one place: the Foundry. Also, it seems that there are no extra costs involved. (Please correct me if I'm wrong).

It all sounds a lot easier to use the new Vector stores instead of setting up, configuring and paying extra for Azure AI Search. So I'm wondering, what could be fair use cases or reasons to pick AI Search over these Vector Stores?

Answer 1

Hi Lotte Kuiper,

Azure AI Search Azure AI provides many benefits on the functionality of vector stores in Azure AI Foundry, despite the ease of use and integration later. Here are some of the major benefits of using Azure AI search:

Azure AI discovery is designed to support the scale, safety and availability of venture-level business requirements, making it suitable for large applications and organizations.

Azure AI search allows for hybrid search capabilities, which means that it can handle both vector and non-sector data within the same search index. This provides more flexibility in reclaiming relevant information.

Azure AI Search contains advanced features such as relevance tuning, faceted navigation, filter, synonyms, and autocrats, which can significantly increase the search experience.

This document provides the ability to apply granular access control at the level that is important for applications that require strict data governance.

Azure AI search is integrated deeply with other azure services, which allows for automated data ingestion and integrated vectorization, which can streamline the workflow.

A single Azure AI search service can host a large number of indexes, which can be beneficial for applications with diverse data sources and requirements.

While the functionality of the vector store in the Azure AI Foundry can be easier and potentially cost effective, the Azure AI search provides a stronger solution for complex applications that require advanced search abilities and enterprise-level features.
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/search/vector-search-overview
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/search/search-what-is-azure-search

if you have any further concerns or queries, please feel free to reach out to us.