Convex vs Pocketbase: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Convex and Pocketbase 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
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Best for you if:
- 0
- • 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
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need something completely free
- • You need data & databases features specifically
- • PocketBase is an open-source backend in a single file
- • It provides a database, auth, and file storage with built-in admin UI
| At a Glance |  Pocketbase | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Data & Databases |
Rating | - | - |
| Feature | Convex | Pocketbase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendServerless | Data & DatabasesLow-Code Backend |
How Convex and Pocketbase Compare
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Free tier available
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
Free
Convex is a low-code backend tool. Pocketbase is in data & databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pocketbase is free. Convex is freemium.
Go with: Pocketbase
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. Pocketbase is free. Go with Pocketbase if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Convex is a low-code backend tool. Pocketbase is in data & databases. 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
Pocketbase
- Completely free
- Better fit for data & databases
The Bottom Line
Convex is our pick. That said, Pocketbase is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Convex or Pocketbase better?
Convex is rated in our evaluation. Convex is freemium and Pocketbase is free.
What are Convex and Pocketbase used for?
Convex: Real-time backend platform for reactive apps. Pocketbase: Open-source backend in a single file.
What does Convex cost vs Pocketbase?
Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Pocketbase is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.