Pocketbase vs Backendless: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Pocketbase and Backendless 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 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need app builders 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
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Backendless is a visual app development platform with backend-as-a-service capabilities
- • It provides database, user management, push notifications, and business logic without code
| At a Glance |  Pocketbase |  Backendless |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | App Builders | API Tools |
Rating | 87/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Pocketbase | Backendless |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | App BuildersInternal Tools | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Pocketbase and Backendless Compare
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
Free · 87/100 score
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Pocketbase is a app builders tool. Backendless is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pocketbase is free. Backendless is freemium.
Go with: Pocketbase
Want the highest-rated option?
Pocketbase: 87/100. Backendless: 80/100.
Go with: Pocketbase
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Pocketbase
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Pocketbase is free. Backendless is freemium. Go with Pocketbase if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Pocketbase is a app builders tool. Backendless is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Pocketbase scores higher: 87/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Pocketbase
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 80
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Backendless
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Pocketbase (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pocketbase or Backendless better?
Pocketbase scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Pocketbase is free and Backendless is freemium.
What are Pocketbase and Backendless used for?
Pocketbase: Open-source backend in a single file. Backendless: Backend as a service with visual app development.
What does Pocketbase cost vs Backendless?
Pocketbase is completely free. Backendless is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.