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 wins this matchup. OutSystems is our overall Low-Code Backend pick. Sanity is our free Low-Code Backend pick. 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 want a fully free tool (Convex requires payment)
- • You want simple backend in a file
- • You want sQLite based
Convex
Real-time backend platform for reactive apps
Best for you if:
- • You want real-time first
- • You want great DX
| At a Glance | Pocketbase | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Data & Databases | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Pocketbase or Convex?
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
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
| Feature | Pocketbase | Convex |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 67 reviews | ★4.6/5 6 reviews |
| Categories | Data & DatabasesLow-Code Backend | Low-Code BackendServerless |
In-Depth Analysis
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
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
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: 4.3/5 (67 reviews). Convex: 4.6/5 (6 reviews).
Go with: Convex
Value user reviews?
Pocketbase: 67 reviews (4.3/5). Convex: 6 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 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Pocketbase
- Larger review base (67 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Convex
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.3/5
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Pocketbase wins this matchup. OutSystems is our overall Low-Code Backend pick. Sanity is our free Low-Code Backend 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.