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PlanetScale vs Convex: Which Should You Choose in 2026?

Choosing between PlanetScale and Convex 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 May 6, 2026 · Methodology

Short on time? Here's the quick answer

We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:

PlanetScale

MySQL serverless platform

Best for you if:

    0
  • • You need hosting & deployment features specifically
  • Serverless MySQL platform
  • Branching for database like Git

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
At a Glance
PlanetScalePlanetScale
ConvexConvex
Price
PaidFree + Paid
Best For
Hosting & DeploymentLow-Code Backend
Rating
FeaturePlanetScaleConvex
Pricing ModelPaidFreemium
Community RatingNo ratings yetNo ratings yet
Total Reviews00
Community Upvotes
0
0
Categories
Hosting & DeploymentManaged Databases
Low-Code BackendServerless

How PlanetScale and Convex Compare

PlanetScale

MySQL serverless platform

Paid

Convex

Backend application platform

Free tier available

PlanetScale is a hosting & deployment tool. Convex is in low-code backend.

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: PlanetScale

Value user reviews?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: PlanetScale

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

PlanetScale is paid. Convex is freemium. Convex lets you start free.

2

What's your use case?

PlanetScale is a hosting & deployment tool. Convex is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.

3

How important are ratings?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Key Takeaways

PlanetScale

    0
  • Our pick for this comparison

Convex

  • Has a free tier
  • Better fit for low-code backend

The Bottom Line

PlanetScale is our pick. Convex has a free tier if you want to test without paying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PlanetScale or Convex better?

PlanetScale is rated high in our evaluation. PlanetScale is paid and Convex is freemium.

What are PlanetScale and Convex used for?

PlanetScale: MySQL serverless platform. Convex: Backend application platform.

What does PlanetScale cost vs Convex?

PlanetScale is a paid tool. Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

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