Firebase Firestore vs Couchbase: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Firebase Firestore and Couchbase 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Firebase Firestore
Flexible, scalable NoSQL cloud database
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Firebase Firestore is a NoSQL document database for mobile and web applications
- • It provides real-time sync, offline support, and scales automatically with your users
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Best for you if:
- • You need managed databases features specifically
- • Couchbase is a distributed NoSQL database combining document, key-value, and SQL capabilities
- • It offers sub-millisecond latency, built-in caching, and mobile sync for demanding applications
| At a Glance |  Firebase Firestore |  Couchbase |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | Managed Databases |
Rating | 88/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Firebase Firestore | Couchbase |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendManaged Databases | Managed DatabasesMobile Backend |
How Firebase Firestore and Couchbase Compare
Firebase Firestore
Flexible, scalable NoSQL cloud database
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Couchbase
Distributed NoSQL cloud database
Paid · 80/100 score
Firebase Firestore is a low-code backend tool. Couchbase is in managed databases.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Firebase Firestore has a free tier. Couchbase is paid only.
Go with: Firebase Firestore
Want the highest-rated option?
Firebase Firestore: 88/100. Couchbase: 80/100.
Go with: Firebase Firestore
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Firebase Firestore
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Firebase Firestore is freemium. Couchbase is paid. Firebase Firestore lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Firebase Firestore is a low-code backend tool. Couchbase is in managed databases. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Firebase Firestore scores higher: 88/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Firebase Firestore
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Couchbase
- Better fit for managed databases
The Bottom Line
Firebase Firestore (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Firebase Firestore or Couchbase better?
Firebase Firestore scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Firebase Firestore is freemium and Couchbase is paid.
What are Firebase Firestore and Couchbase used for?
Firebase Firestore: Flexible, scalable NoSQL cloud database. Couchbase: Distributed NoSQL cloud database.
What does Firebase Firestore cost vs Couchbase?
Firebase Firestore is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Couchbase is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.