Appwrite vs Convex: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Appwrite and Convex comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Convex wins this matchup. MongoDB is our overall Cloud & Infrastructure pick. MongoDB is our free Cloud & Infrastructure pick. Pick Appwrite if you need developer tools.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Appwrite
Open-source backend for web, mobile, and Flutter. Self-host or cloud
Best for you if:
- • You want open source
- • You want self-hostable
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Best for you if:
- • You want real-time first
- • You want great DX
| At a Glance | Appwrite | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Appwrite or Convex?
Choose Appwrite if
Open-source backend for web, mobile, and Flutter. Self-host or cloud
- You want open source
- You want self-hostable
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not low-code backend-shaped
Choose Convex if
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
- You want real-time first
- You want great DX
- Your work is low-code backend-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | Appwrite | Convex |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 5 reviews | ★4.6/5 6 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsCloud & Infrastructure | Low-Code BackendServerless |
In-Depth Analysis
Appwrite
Open-source backend for web, mobile, and Flutter. Self-host or cloud
Appwrite's pricing is quite generous, especially the Free tier which offers substantial limits for hobbyists and small projects.
Watch out
Overage fees for exceeding Pro limits
Strengths
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Multi-platform SDKs
Weaknesses
- -Smaller community
- -Less mature
Key features
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Convex Free tier is generous for side projects: 1M function calls/mo and 0.5GB storage at no cost.
Watch out
EU hosting adds a 30% surcharge on all usage, significant for European teams
Strengths
- +Real-time first
- +Great DX
- +TypeScript native
Weaknesses
- -Vendor lock-in
- -Newer platform
Key features
Pricing: Appwrite vs Convex
| Plan | Appwrite | Convex |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | $0 Free |
| Tier 2 | $25 Pro | $25/developer Professional |
| Tier 3 | Custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Appwrite pricing and Convex pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Appwrite
Want the highest-rated option?
Appwrite: 4.4/5 (5 reviews). Convex: 4.6/5 (6 reviews).
Go with: Convex
Value user reviews?
Appwrite: 5 reviews (4.4/5). Convex: 6 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: Convex
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Appwrite is a developer tools tool. Convex is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Convex is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
Convex
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.4/5
- Larger review base (6 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Appwrite
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
Convex wins this matchup. MongoDB is our overall Cloud & Infrastructure pick. MongoDB is our free Cloud & Infrastructure pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Appwrite or Convex better?
Convex is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Appwrite and Convex used for?
Appwrite: Open-source backend for web, mobile, and Flutter. Self-host or cloud. Convex: Real-time backend platform for reactive apps.
What does Appwrite cost vs Convex?
Appwrite is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.