Netlify vs PocketBase
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool for your needs
P
PocketBase
Open-source backend in a single file — realtime database, auth, and file storage
4.5
Editorial RatingQuick Comparison
Rating
4.4
vs4.5
Starting Price
Free
vsFree
Pricing Model
freemium
vsfree
Feature
Netlify
PocketBase
Git-based deployments
Serverless functions
Forms
Identity/auth
Split testing
Edge network
Embedded database
Realtime subscriptions
Built-in authentication
File storage
Admin dashboard
REST API
Netlify Pros
- Generous free tier for static sites
- Great for Jamstack — Hugo, Gatsby, Astro, etc.
- Built-in forms without a backend
- Good CDN and edge network
- Easy setup for any static site generator
Netlify Cons
- Vercel beats it for Next.js experience
- Build minutes limited on free tier
- Serverless functions less powerful than alternatives
PocketBase Pros
- Single binary — incredibly easy to deploy
- Zero configuration needed
- Built-in auth, files, and realtime
- Perfect for MVPs and side projects
PocketBase Cons
- SQLite limits horizontal scaling
- Smaller ecosystem than Firebase/Supabase
- Not ideal for high-write workloads