PocketBase vs Supabase
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
4.5
vs4.5
Starting Price
Free
vsFree
Pricing Model
free
vsfreemium
Feature
PocketBase
Supabase
Embedded database
Realtime subscriptions
Built-in authentication
File storage
Admin dashboard
REST API
PostgreSQL database
Authentication
Storage
Edge functions
Realtime
REST & GraphQL APIs
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
Supabase Pros
- Open source — no vendor lock-in
- Full PostgreSQL power (not a NoSQL compromise)
- Best free tier in the backend-as-a-service space
- Excellent developer experience and documentation
- Row Level Security for fine-grained access control
Supabase Cons
- Free projects pause after 1 week of inactivity
- Self-hosting is complex to maintain
- Smaller ecosystem than Firebase for mobile