PocketBase vs Nhost: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

PocketBase is the better pick for small apps and prototypes that need a backend fast. Nhost is the better pick for GraphQL-first apps on Postgres.

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At a Glance

Feature	PocketBase	Nhost
Best For	Small apps and prototypes that need a backend fast	GraphQL-first apps on Postgres
Pricing	Free and open source	Free open source; paid managed cloud
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Open source	Open source
Deployment	Self-hosted	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit PocketBase	Visit Nhost

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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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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: PocketBase — open-source backend in a single executable. Nhost — open-source backend with Postgres and GraphQL.
• Both share the same licensing model (open source), so the decision comes down to features and workflow fit.
• Deployment: PocketBase — self-hosted. Nhost — self-hosted or managed cloud.
• Pricing: PocketBase — free and open source. Nhost — free open source; paid managed cloud.
• Signature strength: PocketBase — single binary with embedded SQLite. Nhost — Postgres with a Hasura GraphQL API.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is PocketBase better than Nhost?

It depends on your requirements. PocketBase is a strong fit for small apps and prototypes that need a backend fast, while Nhost suits GraphQL-first apps on Postgres.

Is PocketBase free to use?

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

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 PocketBase or Nhost?

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

What are the main drawbacks of PocketBase and Nhost?

PocketBase: not built for horizontal scaling; Pre-1.0 releases may include breaking changes. Nhost: GraphQL-centric; smaller ecosystem.