🔧 Backend & BaaS Comparison

Directus vs PocketBase

A detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool for your needs.

Last updated: 2026-02-07

Directus

Free self-hosted, cloud from $15/mo

Strengths

  • + Works with existing SQL databases without migration
  • + Visual admin panel for non-technical content management
  • + Self-hostable for free under MIT license

Weaknesses

  • − Revenue threshold requires a paid license for self-hosted (over $5M/yr)
  • − More CMS-oriented, less suited for complex application logic
Visit Directus →

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
Visit PocketBase →

The verdict

Which one is right for you?

Choose Directus if you want

  • → Works with existing SQL databases without migration
  • → Visual admin panel for non-technical content management
Try Directus →

Choose PocketBase if you want

  • → 100% free
  • → Single binary deployment
Try PocketBase →

In depth

About each tool

Directus

Open-source headless CMS and backend-as-a-service that wraps any SQL database with a REST and GraphQL API

Directus is an open-source data platform that layers a real-time API and intuitive admin app on top of any SQL database. It supports REST and GraphQL out of the box, with granular role-based access control and built-in file storage. Ideal for solo founders who need a content backend with a visual dashboard, or who want to expose an existing database as an API without rewriting anything.

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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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