Convex vs Supabase — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Convex and Supabase to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
Quick Verdict
Supabase takes the lead with a 4.5 rating and is best for developers who want a firebase-like experience with real postgresql and open-source flexibility.. Convex (4.4) is the better pick if you need developers building real-time apps who want a full backend solution.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Convex | Supabase |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.4(33) | ★★★★★ 4.5(234) |
| Pricing Model | freemium | freemium |
| Starter Price | $25/mo | $25/mo (Pro) |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | web, cli | web |
| Learning Curve | medium | medium |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Developers building real-time apps who want a full backend solution | Developers who want a Firebase-like experience with real PostgreSQL and open-source flexibility. |
| Verdict | recommended | recommended |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Convex | Supabase |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time sync | — | |
| Server functions | — | |
| File storage | — | |
| Scheduled jobs | — | |
| Full TypeScript | — | |
| PostgreSQL database with dashboard | — | |
| Authentication (email, social, magic links) | — | |
| File storage with CDN | — | |
| Real-time subscriptions | — | |
| Edge functions | — | |
| Row Level Security | — |
Convex
Pros
- ✓Real-time sync just works
- ✓Excellent TypeScript DX
- ✓Eliminates backend boilerplate
Cons
- ✕Vendor lock-in is real
- ✕Non-standard data model
- ✕Smaller community than Firebase
Supabase
Pros
- ✓Real PostgreSQL — no proprietary database lock-in
- ✓Auth, storage, and real-time included out of the box
- ✓Open source with self-hosting option
Cons
- ✕Complex queries can be challenging through the client library
- ✕Free tier projects pause after inactivity
- ✕Edge functions are newer and less mature than Firebase functions
The Bottom Line
Both Convex and Supabase are solid tools in the Developer Tools space. Supabase edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.5 vs 4.4) and is the better choice for developers who want a firebase-like experience with real postgresql and open-source flexibility.. However, if you prioritize developers building real-time apps who want a full backend solution, Convex is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.