pgvector for RAG: When you don't need a dedicated vector database
Dedicated vector databases have become such a standard part of the RAG conversation that teams often add one before they have proved they need it. According to studies, over 70% of companies using LLMs are using vector databases and RAG to customize their models. That shows how quickly the pattern has become normal. However, it does not mean every RAG application needs a separate retrieval system. If your application already runs on PostgreSQL, pgvector may be enough.