Convex vs PlanetScale: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Convex and PlanetScale 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Convex
Backend application platform
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Convex is a backend-as-a-service platform with real-time sync and serverless functions
- • It provides a reactive database, file storage, and TypeScript backend functions in one package
PlanetScale
MySQL serverless platform
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
- • Serverless MySQL platform
- • Branching for database like Git
| At a Glance |  PlanetScale | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Hosting & Deployment |
Rating | - | - |
| Feature | Convex | PlanetScale |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendServerless | Hosting & DeploymentManaged Databases |
How Convex and PlanetScale Compare
Convex
Backend application platform
Free tier available
PlanetScale
MySQL serverless platform
Paid
Convex is a low-code backend tool. PlanetScale is in hosting & deployment.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Convex has a free tier. PlanetScale is paid only.
Go with: Convex
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Convex
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Convex
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Convex is freemium. PlanetScale is paid. Convex lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Convex is a low-code backend tool. PlanetScale is in hosting & deployment. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Convex
- 0
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
PlanetScale
- Better fit for hosting & deployment
The Bottom Line
Convex is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Convex or PlanetScale better?
Convex is rated high in our evaluation. Convex is freemium and PlanetScale is paid.
What are Convex and PlanetScale used for?
Convex: Backend application platform. PlanetScale: MySQL serverless platform.
What does Convex cost vs PlanetScale?
Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). PlanetScale is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.