Appwrite vs Firebase: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Appwrite and Firebase 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Appwrite
Open source backend platform
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Appwrite is an open-source backend-as-a-service platform for web and mobile developers
- • It provides authentication, databases, storage, and cloud functions out of the box
Firebase
App development platform by Google
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need ci/cd features specifically
- • Google's app development platform
- • Backend-as-a-service for mobile and web
| At a Glance |  Appwrite |  Firebase |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | CI/CD |
Rating | 84/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Appwrite | Firebase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendHosting & Deployment | CI/CDServerless |
How Appwrite and Firebase Compare
Appwrite
Open source backend platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Firebase
App development platform by Google
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Appwrite is a low-code backend tool. Firebase is in ci/cd.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Appwrite
Want the highest-rated option?
Appwrite: 84/100. Firebase: 88/100.
Go with: Firebase
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Firebase
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 low-code backend tool. Firebase is in ci/cd. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Firebase scores higher: 88/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Firebase
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Appwrite
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Firebase (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Appwrite or Firebase better?
Firebase scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Appwrite and Firebase used for?
Appwrite: Open source backend platform. Firebase: App development platform by Google.
What does Appwrite cost vs Firebase?
Appwrite is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Firebase is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.