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Updated May 2, 2026Databases Comparison

Supabase vs PlanetScale Comparison

A detailed comparison of Supabase and PlanetScale.

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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P

PlanetScale

The world's most advanced serverless MySQL platform.

Primary Task

Serverless MySQL

Pricing

Paid

Key Features

  • Horizontal Sharding
  • Non-blocking Schema Changes
  • Branching
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At a Glance

FeatureSupabasePlanetScale
Primary TaskBackend DBServerless MySQL
Pricing ModelFreemiumPaid
Founded20202018
Open Source
Database TypeMulti-modelMulti-model
RealtimeN/A
Built-in Auth
Self-HostableN/AN/A

Pros & Cons

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Supabase

Strengths

  • Open Source
  • Postgres-based
  • Unlimited API requests on Pro

Limitations

  • Complex RLS policies
  • No built-in caching
  • Slower initial response on free tier (Cold starts)
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PlanetScale

Strengths

  • Horizontal scaling
  • Non-blocking schema changes
  • Branching

Limitations

  • No foreign keys
  • Pricing changes
  • MySQL only
Final Decision

The Verdict

Both tools are excellent. Here's how to choose the right one for your project.

S

Choose Supabase

Best for

  • Strong Postgres Database capabilities
  • Freemium pricing model
  • Backend DB workflows
P

Choose PlanetScale

Best for

  • Horizontal Sharding focused projects
  • Paid approach
  • Serverless MySQL use cases

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Supabase and PlanetScale?

Supabase is primarily a Backend DB, while PlanetScale is focused on Serverless MySQL. The open source Firebase alternative. The world's most advanced serverless MySQL platform.

Is Supabase open source?

No, Supabase is a commercial product with a freemium model.

Is PlanetScale open source?

No, PlanetScale is a commercial product with a paid model.

Which is better for Databases?

It depends on your specific needs. Supabase is often chosen for its postgres database capabilities, while PlanetScale is popular for its horizontal sharding features.