Convex vs Hasura: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Convex and Hasura 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: Hasura wins this matchup. PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. PostgreSQL is our free Data & Databases pick. Pick Convex if you need low-code backend.
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
Hasura
Instant GraphQL APIs on your databases
Best for you if:
- • You want instant GraphQL APIs
- • You want real-time subscriptions
| At a Glance | Hasura | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Convex or Hasura?
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 API tools-shaped
Choose Hasura if
Instant GraphQL APIs on your databases
- You want instant GraphQL APIs
- You want real-time subscriptions
- Your work is API tools-shaped, not low-code backend-shaped
| Feature | Convex | Hasura |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 6 reviews | ★4.7/5 26 reviews |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendServerless | API ToolsGraphQL Tools |
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
Hasura
Instant GraphQL APIs on your databases
Hasura's DDN Free tier is generous, offering unlimited models and API requests, making it highly accessible for individual developers.
Strengths
- +Instant GraphQL APIs
- +Real-time subscriptions
- +Authorization built-in
- +Good performance
- +Open source core
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -PostgreSQL focused
- -Cloud expensive
- -Complex for simple needs
- -Vendor lock-in risk
Key features
Pricing: Convex vs Hasura
| Plan | Convex | Hasura |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free DDN Free |
| Tier 2 | $25/developer Professional | $5 month per active model DDN Base |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $30 month per active model DDN Advanced |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Convex pricing and Hasura 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 (6 reviews). Hasura: 4.7/5 (26 reviews).
Go with: Hasura
Value user reviews?
Convex: 6 reviews (4.6/5). Hasura: 26 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Hasura
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. Hasura is in API tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Hasura is rated higher: 4.7/5 vs 4.6/5.
Key Takeaways
Hasura
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.6/5
- Larger review base (26 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Convex
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Hasura wins this matchup. PostgreSQL is our overall Data & Databases pick. PostgreSQL is our free Data & Databases pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Convex or Hasura better?
Hasura is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Convex and Hasura used for?
Convex: Real-time backend platform for reactive apps. Hasura: Instant GraphQL APIs on your databases.
What does Convex cost vs Hasura?
Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hasura is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.