Supabase vs PocketBase
Hosted PostgreSQL backend with auth, real-time, and edge functions. — vs — Single-binary backend with embedded SQLite database and admin UI.
Quick Verdict
Choose Supabase for production applications that need scalability and managed infrastructure. Choose PocketBase for side projects and small apps where simplicity and cost matter most. Supabase scales; PocketBase simplifies.
What is Supabase?
Supabase provides a hosted PostgreSQL database with auth, real-time, storage, and edge functions. It's designed for production applications with managed infrastructure, automatic backups, and global CDN.
What is PocketBase?
PocketBase is a single Go binary that provides a complete backend — embedded SQLite database, real-time subscriptions, auth, file storage, and admin UI. It can be deployed on a single VPS for minimal cost and requires zero external dependencies.
Supabase vs PocketBase: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Supabase | PocketBase |
|---|---|---|
| Database | PostgreSQL (hosted) | SQLite (embedded) |
| Deployment | Managed cloud | Single binary, any VPS |
| Cost | Free tier, $25/mo+ | Free (just hosting costs) |
| Scale | Production-grade scaling | Single-server (vertical only) |
| Admin UI | Dashboard | Built-in admin panel |
| Community | Large, enterprise-backed | Active open-source |
When to Choose Supabase
You need production-grade scalability.
You want managed infrastructure and automatic backups.
You need PostgreSQL features (complex queries, extensions).
You're building for a team or enterprise.
When to Choose PocketBase
You want the simplest, cheapest backend possible.
You're building a side project or small application.
You want zero external dependencies — just one binary.
You want to self-host on a $5/mo VPS.
The Verdict
Choose Supabase for production applications that need scalability and managed infrastructure. Choose PocketBase for side projects and small apps where simplicity and cost matter most. Supabase scales; PocketBase simplifies.
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