SearXNG vs 
Farfalle
SearXNG vs Farfalle compared for 2026 — features, license, ease of use, performance and which one to choose. The private search layer behind AI search vs Self-hosted answer engine with local models.
Updated regularly · curated by OpenSourceAI.tech
SearXNG vs Farfalle at a glance
| Spec | SearXNG | Farfalle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | AI search engines | AI search engines |
| Type | Meta-search engine | AI search engine |
| License | AGPL-3.0 | Apache-2.0 |
| Runs locally | Self-hosted | Yes |
| Primary language | Python | TypeScript |
| Ease of use | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Best for | self-hosters wanting a private search backend | a private Perplexity on local models |
| GitHub stars | — | 3.5k |
How SearXNG and Farfalle score
| Criterion | SearXNG | Farfalle |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity | n/a | 2.5 |
| Maintenance | n/a | 2.0 |
| Ease of use | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Privacy | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| License freedom | 3.5 | 5.0 |
Scores are computed automatically from public signals — GitHub stars (popularity), recent commit activity (maintenance), license type (freedom), local-first design (privacy) and onboarding complexity (ease of use). Indicative, not a verdict.
What each one is
SearXNG
SearXNG is a privacy-respecting meta-search engine aggregating dozens of sources, widely used as the retrieval layer behind self-hosted AI answer engines.
- Aggregates dozens of engines, zero tracking
- The standard retrieval layer for local AI search
- Battle-tested, easy Docker deployment
Farfalle
Farfalle is a self-hosted AI answer engine that can run entirely on local models, searching the web and citing its sources.
- Runs fully on local models
- Cites its sources
- Clean, fast interface
Key differences
SearXNG is meta-search engine, while Farfalle is aI search engine. Their licenses differ (AGPL-3.0 vs Apache-2.0), which matters if you ship a commercial product. They also differ in how they run (Self-hosted vs Yes). In short, SearXNG fits self-hosters wanting a private search backend, and Farfalle fits a private Perplexity on local models.
Which should you choose?
Choose SearXNG for self-hosters wanting a private search backend. Choose Farfalle for a private Perplexity on local models.
There is rarely one winner — many setups use both. The right pick depends on your hardware, your team's skills, and whether you value simplicity or control.
Frequently asked questions
Is SearXNG or Farfalle easier to use?
Both sit at a similar level (Intermediate). Your choice should come down to fit rather than difficulty.
Are SearXNG and Farfalle free?
SearXNG is free and open source (AGPL-3.0), and Farfalle is free and open source (Apache-2.0). Neither charges for the core software.
Can I run SearXNG and Farfalle locally?
SearXNG: self-hosted · Farfalle: yes. Both can be used without sending your data to a third-party cloud where their setup allows.
SearXNG vs Farfalle — which should I pick in 2026?
Choose SearXNG for self-hosters wanting a private search backend. Choose Farfalle for a private Perplexity on local models.
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