Convex vs Pocketbase: Which is Better 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.
Bottom line: Pocketbase wins this matchup. Our overall Low-Code Backend pick is OutSystems. Our free Low-Code Backend pick is Bagisto. 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
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
Best for you if:
- • You want a fully free tool (Convex requires payment)
- • You want simple backend in a file
- • You want sQLite based
| At a Glance | Pocketbase | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Data & Databases |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.1/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Convex or Pocketbase?
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 data & databases-shaped
Choose Pocketbase if
Open-source backend in a single file
- You want a fully free tool (Convex requires payment)
- You want simple backend in a file
- You want sQLite based
- Your work is data & databases-shaped, not low-code backend-shaped
| Feature | Convex | Pocketbase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 25 reviews | ★4.1/5 208 reviews |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendServerless | Data & DatabasesLow-Code Backend |
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
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
The pricing for Pocketbase is exceptionally generous, as it is entirely open-source and free.
Strengths
- +Simple backend in a file
- +SQLite based
- +Real-time subscriptions
- +Auth built-in
- +Open source
Weaknesses
- -Single file limits scale
- -Go knowledge helpful
- -Limited ecosystem
- -Not for large apps
- -Documentation basic
Key features
Pricing: Convex vs Pocketbase
| Plan | Convex | Pocketbase |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | $0 Open Source |
| Tier 2 | $25/developer Professional | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Convex pricing and Pocketbase pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pocketbase is free. Convex is freemium.
Go with: Pocketbase
Want the highest-rated option?
Convex: 4.6/5 (25 reviews). Pocketbase: 4.1/5 (208 reviews).
Go with: Convex
Value user reviews?
Convex: 25 reviews (4.6/5). Pocketbase: 208 reviews (4.1/5).
Go with: Pocketbase
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?
Convex is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.1/5.
Key Takeaways
Pocketbase
- Larger review base (208 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Convex
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.1/5
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Pocketbase wins this matchup. Our overall Low-Code Backend pick is OutSystems. Our free Low-Code Backend pick is Bagisto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Convex or Pocketbase better?
Pocketbase 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.