Pocketbase vs Convex: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Pocketbase 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.
Bottom line: Pocketbase is our overall pick for data & databases workflows. 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:
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
Best for you if:
- • 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
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  Pocketbase | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Data & Databases | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.6/5 |
Choose Pocketbase or Convex?
Choose Pocketbase if
Open-source backend in a single file
- Simple backend in a file
- SQLite based
- Real-time subscriptions
- You want a fully free tool (Convex requires payment)
- Your work is data & databases-shaped, not low-code backend-shaped
Choose Convex if
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
- Real-time first
- Great DX
- TypeScript native
- Your work is low-code backend-shaped, not data & databases-shaped
| Feature | Pocketbase | Convex |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.1/5 208 reviews | ★4.6/5 25 reviews |
| Categories | Data & DatabasesLow-Code Backend | Low-Code BackendServerless |
In-Depth Analysis
Pocketbase
Open-source backend in a single file
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
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Strengths
- +Real-time first
- +Great DX
- +TypeScript native
Weaknesses
- -Vendor lock-in
- -Newer platform
Key features
Pricing: Pocketbase vs Convex
| Plan | Pocketbase | Convex |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Open Source | $0 Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $25/developer Professional |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Pocketbase pricing and Convex pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Pocketbase is free. Convex is freemium.
Go with: Pocketbase
Want the highest-rated option?
Pocketbase: 4.1/5 (208 reviews). Convex: 4.6/5 (25 reviews).
Go with: Convex
Value user reviews?
Pocketbase: 208 reviews (4.1/5). Convex: 25 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: Pocketbase
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Pocketbase is free. Convex is freemium. Go with Pocketbase if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Pocketbase is a data & databases tool. Convex is in low-code backend. 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 is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pocketbase or Convex better?
Pocketbase is rated in our evaluation. Pocketbase is free and Convex is freemium.
What are Pocketbase and Convex used for?
Pocketbase: Open-source backend in a single file. Convex: Real-time backend platform for reactive apps.
What does Pocketbase cost vs Convex?
Pocketbase is completely free. Convex is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.