Best MCP Servers for Search & Knowledge (2026)
Give Claude Code access to web search, semantic retrieval, and knowledge management. These MCP servers let you research topics, look up documentation, and manage persistent knowledge - all from your terminal.
Quick comparison
| # | Server | CLI Score | Quality |
|---|
Detailed rankings
How to install MCP servers in Claude Code
MCP servers install with a single command. Run the install command in your terminal and the server will be available in all future Claude Code sessions.
1. Run the install command
claude mcp add brave-search -- npx -y @anthropic-ai/mcp-server-brave-search2. Set any required environment variables
Most MCP servers need an API key or token. Set it as an environment variable in your shell profile:
export GITHUB_TOKEN=ghp_your_token_here3. Or configure in Claude Code settings
You can also add MCP servers directly in your Claude Code settings file (~/.claude.json):
{
"mcpServers": {
"server-name": {
"command": "npx",
"args": ["-y", "@package/server-name"],
"env": {
"API_KEY": "your-key-here"
}
}
}
}4. Verify it works
Start a new Claude Code session and ask Claude to use the server. For example: "List my GitHub repos" or "Show my Postgres tables". Claude will use the MCP server automatically.
Frequently asked questions
Which search MCP server is best?
Brave Search is the easiest to set up and covers general web search well. Exa is better for semantic/research queries. Tavily is optimised for AI consumption with cleaner results.
What is the Memory MCP server for?
It creates a persistent knowledge graph that survives across Claude Code sessions. Store entities, relations, and context so Claude remembers project details over time.
Can Claude Code search my local notes?
Yes. The Obsidian MCP server indexes your vault and lets Claude search notes, follow backlinks, and read content. Context7 pulls live library documentation.