PocketBase vs Convex: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

PocketBase is the better pick for small apps and prototypes that need a backend fast. Convex is the better pick for TypeScript apps that want reactive data without managing infrastructure.

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At a Glance

Feature	PocketBase	Convex
Best For	Small apps and prototypes that need a backend fast	TypeScript apps that want reactive data without managing infrastructure
Pricing	Free and open source	Free tier with paid plans
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Open source	Source-available
Deployment	Self-hosted	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit PocketBase	Visit Convex

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Detailed Breakdown

PocketBase

Open-source backend in a single executable

Pros:

• Single binary with embedded SQLite
• Realtime subscriptions and auth
• Extremely easy to deploy

Cons:

• Not built for horizontal scaling
• Pre-1.0 releases may include breaking changes

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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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Key Differences

• Positioning: PocketBase — open-source backend in a single executable. Convex — reactive backend platform with TypeScript functions.
• Licensing differs: PocketBase is open source while Convex is source-available.
• Deployment: PocketBase — self-hosted. Convex — self-hosted or managed cloud.
• Pricing: PocketBase — free and open source. Convex — free tier with paid plans.
• Signature strength: PocketBase — single binary with embedded SQLite. Convex — queries are reactive by default.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is PocketBase better than Convex?

It depends on your requirements. PocketBase is a strong fit for small apps and prototypes that need a backend fast, while Convex suits TypeScript apps that want reactive data without managing infrastructure.

Is PocketBase free to use?

Yes, you can start with PocketBase for free. Pricing model: Free and open source.

Is Convex free to use?

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

Can I self-host PocketBase or Convex?

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

What are the main drawbacks of PocketBase and Convex?

PocketBase: not built for horizontal scaling; Pre-1.0 releases may include breaking changes. Convex: proprietary data model and query API; less suited to SQL-heavy workloads.