Convex vs Appwrite: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Convex and Appwrite 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. Our overall Data & Databases pick is PostgreSQL. Our free Data & Databases pick is PostgreSQL. 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:
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Best for you if:
- • You want real-time first
- • You want great DX
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
| At a Glance | Appwrite | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Developer Tools |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Convex or Appwrite?
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
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
| Feature | Convex | Appwrite |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 25 reviews | ★4.4/5 5 reviews |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendServerless | Developer ToolsCloud & Infrastructure |
In-Depth Analysis
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
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
Pricing: Convex vs Appwrite
| Plan | Convex | Appwrite |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | $0 Free |
| Tier 2 | $25/developer Professional | $25 Pro |
| Tier 3 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Convex pricing and Appwrite pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Convex
Want the highest-rated option?
Convex: 4.6/5 (25 reviews). Appwrite: 4.4/5 (5 reviews).
Go with: Convex
Value user reviews?
Convex: 25 reviews (4.6/5). Appwrite: 5 reviews (4.4/5).
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?
Convex is a low-code backend tool. Appwrite is in developer tools. 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 (25 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Appwrite
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
Convex wins this matchup. Our overall Data & Databases pick is PostgreSQL. Our free Data & Databases pick is PostgreSQL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Convex or Appwrite better?
Convex is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Convex and Appwrite used for?
Convex: Real-time backend platform for reactive apps. Appwrite: Open-source backend for web, mobile, and Flutter. Self-host or cloud.
What does Convex cost vs Appwrite?
Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Appwrite is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.