Hybrid Search: Best of Both Worlds
Combine semantic and keyword search for optimal results.
The Search Accuracy Problem
❌ Vector Search Only:
- • Exact product codes (SKU-12345)
- • Technical acronyms (SAML, OAuth, RMA)
- • Proper nouns and brand names
- • Specific version numbers (v2.4.1)
✓ Hybrid Search:
- • Exact matches via BM25 keyword search
- • Conceptual matches via vectors
- • Best of both worlds combined
- • 40% better recall on average
How Hybrid Search Works
A sophisticated fusion of two powerful search paradigms
BM25 Keyword Search
Classic full-text search that excels at exact matches, acronyms, and specific terminology.
Vector Similarity
Semantic understanding that finds conceptually related content even with different words.
Reciprocal Rank Fusion
Intelligent combination of both methods for optimal results using RRF algorithm.
Adjustable Weights
Fine-tune the balance between keyword and semantic search for your use case.
See It In Action
Real examples showing hybrid search advantages
"What is the RMA process for defective products?"
Keyword "RMA" matches exactly, while semantic search understands "defective products" relates to returns and warranties.
Returns the RMA policy document with 98% relevance, combining exact acronym match with semantic understanding.
"How do I configure SSO with SAML?"
Technical acronyms "SSO" and "SAML" matched via BM25, context understood semantically.
Finds authentication setup guide even when document uses "Single Sign-On" instead of "SSO".
"Employee vacation policy"
Semantic search finds documents about "PTO", "time off", and "leave" - all related concepts.
Surfaces HR handbook sections on PTO, holiday schedules, and leave requests.
Hybrid Search Capabilities
See why enterprises choose RAG Engine for mission-critical search
| Feature | RAG Engine | Pinecone | Weaviate | ChromaDB |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keyword + Semantic Search | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| BM25 Built-in | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Adjustable Fusion Weights | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| No External Dependencies | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Production Ready | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
Works Great With
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