🔧 Backend & BaaS Comparison
Convex vs PocketBase
A detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool for your needs.
Last updated: 2026-02-07
Convex
Free tier, paid from $25/mo per member
Strengths
- + Real-time data sync out of the box with no extra config
- + TypeScript-first with end-to-end type safety
- + Generous free tier that scales to zero
Weaknesses
- − Vendor lock-in with no self-hosting option
- − Relatively new platform with a smaller community
PocketBase
Free and open source
Strengths
- + 100% free
- + Single binary deployment
- + Auth, DB, storage included
Weaknesses
- − Not production-proven at scale
- − Still pre-1.0
The verdict
Which one is right for you?
Choose Convex if you want
- → Real-time data sync out of the box with no extra config
- → TypeScript-first with end-to-end type safety
In depth
About each tool
Convex
Reactive backend platform with real-time database, serverless functions, and automatic caching
Convex is a reactive backend platform where the database, server functions, and caching work together as one system. It handles real-time subscriptions, ACID transactions, and file storage without requiring separate infrastructure. The free Starter plan is pay-as-you-go with no base cost, making it practical for solo founders to prototype and launch without upfront commitment.
PocketBase
Open source backend in a single file
PocketBase is a complete backend in one executable file. SQLite database, auth, file storage, real-time subscriptions, admin dashboard — all included. Perfect for indie hackers who want to ship fast without managing infrastructure. Open source (MIT license).
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