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Updated May 2, 2026Databases Comparison

Pocketbase vs Supabase Comparison

Pocketbase (single-file backend) vs Supabase (Postgres cloud). Compare their simplicity, scalability, and which backend solution is right for your project.

P

Pocketbase

Open Source backend in 1 file.

Primary Task

All-in-one Backend

Pricing

Open Source

Key Features

  • Realtime DB
  • Built-in Auth
  • File Storage
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S

Supabase

The open source Firebase alternative.

Primary Task

Backend DB

Pricing

Freemium

Key Features

  • Postgres Database
  • Realtime Subscriptions
  • Auth & Storage
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At a Glance

FeaturePocketbaseSupabase
DatabaseSQLite (embedded)PostgreSQL (server)
DeploymentSingle executableCloud or Docker
Admin UIBuilt-inYes (cloud)
RealtimeYesYes (Postgres CDC)
AuthBuilt-inGoTrue
StorageFile systemS3-compatible
Horizontal Scaling

Pros & Cons

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Pocketbase

Strengths

  • Incredibly simple (single executable)
  • No dependencies or Docker needed
  • Perfect for side projects/MVPs
  • Built-in admin dashboard
  • MIT licensed (truly free)

Limitations

  • SQLite limitations (no horizontal scaling)
  • Self-hosting only (no cloud option)
  • Smaller community
  • Not for high-traffic apps
S

Supabase

Strengths

  • Postgres power and ecosystem
  • Horizontal scaling capable
  • Managed cloud option
  • Row Level Security
  • Great for production apps

Limitations

  • More complex to self-host (Docker)
  • Overkill for simple projects
  • Cloud costs money
Final Decision

The Verdict

P

Choose Pocketbase

Best for

  • you want the simplest possible backend for side projects, MVPs, or small apps. Perfect for indie hackers who want to self-host easily.
S

Choose Supabase

Best for

  • you need Postgres, plan to scale beyond a small app, or want a managed cloud platform with enterprise features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Pocketbase scale to production?

For small-to-medium apps, yes. Pocketbase uses SQLite which has limits but can handle thousands of users. For massive scale, Supabase's Postgres is better.

Does Pocketbase have a cloud option?

No. Pocketbase is self-hosted only. You deploy it to your own server (VPS, Railway, etc.). Supabase offers both cloud and self-hosting.

Is Pocketbase really just one file?

Yes! Download the ~15MB executable, run it, and you have a complete backend with database, auth, storage, and admin UI. No dependencies needed.

Which is easier to get started?

Pocketbase is simpler for self-hosting (just run the executable). Supabase is simpler if you use their cloud (no hosting required).