Convex vs Nhost: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

Convex is the better pick for TypeScript apps that want reactive data without managing infrastructure. Nhost is the better pick for GraphQL-first apps on Postgres.

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At a Glance

Feature	Convex	Nhost
Best For	TypeScript apps that want reactive data without managing infrastructure	GraphQL-first apps on Postgres
Pricing	Free tier with paid plans	Free open source; paid managed cloud
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Source-available	Open source
Deployment	Self-hosted or managed cloud	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit Convex	Visit Nhost

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Detailed Breakdown

Convex

Reactive backend platform with TypeScript functions

Pros:

• Queries are reactive by default
• Backend logic written in TypeScript
• Transactions built in

Cons:

• Proprietary data model and query API
• Less suited to SQL-heavy workloads

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Nhost

Open-source backend with Postgres and GraphQL

Pros:

• Postgres with a Hasura GraphQL API
• Auth and storage included
• Self-hostable

Cons:

• GraphQL-centric
• Smaller ecosystem

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Key Differences

• Positioning: Convex — reactive backend platform with TypeScript functions. Nhost — open-source backend with Postgres and GraphQL.
• Licensing differs: Convex is source-available while Nhost is open source.
• Pricing: Convex — free tier with paid plans. Nhost — free open source; paid managed cloud.
• Signature strength: Convex — queries are reactive by default. Nhost — Postgres with a Hasura GraphQL API.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Convex better than Nhost?

It depends on your requirements. Convex is a strong fit for TypeScript apps that want reactive data without managing infrastructure, while Nhost suits GraphQL-first apps on Postgres.

Is Convex free to use?

Yes, you can start with Convex for free. Pricing model: Free tier with paid plans.

Is Nhost free to use?

Yes, you can start with Nhost for free. Pricing model: Free open source; paid managed cloud.

Can I self-host Convex or Nhost?

Convex can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud. Nhost can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of Convex and Nhost?

Convex: proprietary data model and query API; less suited to SQL-heavy workloads. Nhost: GraphQL-centric; smaller ecosystem.