PocketBase vs Supabase
In-depth comparison of features, pricing structures, speed benchmarks, and team seat cost differentials for small businesses and SaaS founders.
PocketBase
PocketBase packs an embedded SQLite database, real-time subscriptions, file storage, user authentication, and an admin dashboard into a single portable binary that runs on a $4/mo VPS.
Supabase
Supabase provides all the backend features you need to build a product: PostgreSQL database, Authentication, instant APIs, Edge Functions, Realtime subscriptions, and vector storage.
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Interactive Team Savings Calculator
Adjust your team size to estimate monthly and annual cost differences.
Note: Pricing calculates base published tiers with per-seat adjustments where applicable.
Estimated Annual Savings: $1,500
You save roughly 100% every year switching to PocketBase.
Direct Feature Comparison
Detailed side-by-side capabilities and infrastructure support.
| Feature Specification | PocketBase | Supabase |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Click Full Data Export data-ownership | Supported Single SQLite file backup | Supported Full SQL dumps and automated backups |
| Full API & Webhooks developer | Supported Instant REST API & JS/Dart SDKs | Supported Instant REST (PostgREST) and GraphQL APIs |
| No Vendor Lock-In data-ownership | Supported MIT open-source license | Supported Standard open-source PostgreSQL. Take your pg_dump anywhere. |
| Self-Hostable / Open Source infrastructure | Supported Single standalone executable binary | Supported Full Docker Compose stack available on GitHub |
Verified Pricing Breakdown
Official published tiers for PocketBase and Supabase.
PocketBase Plans Verified
100% Free Open Source
monthly
Supabase Plans Verified
Free (2 projects, 500MB DB)
monthly
Pro (Compute credits included)
monthly
Team Tier
monthly
Frequently Asked Questions
Key differences and migration facts small business owners and founders ask about.
What is the main difference between PocketBase and Supabase?
PocketBase is an independent, agility-focused tool that emphasizes "Open-source backend in 1 single Go file with SQLite, Auth & Realtime", whereas Supabase is an agile indie solution designed around "The open source Firebase alternative".
Which is more affordable: PocketBase or Supabase?
Pricing depends on your team structure. PocketBase offers pricing starting at $0, while Supabase starts at $0. For small businesses and growing teams, agile tools typically reduce total expenditure by 60% to 80%.
Does PocketBase offer a free tier?
Yes, PocketBase provides a free tier or free plan for small businesses, teams, and solo founders.
Why do small businesses and SaaS founders switch from Supabase to PocketBase?
Teams switch to PocketBase to eliminate enterprise seat bloat, gain faster workflow speed, benefit from transparent pricing without sales calls, and maintain full data ownership.
Ready to test PocketBase?
Try PocketBase today and experience why modern fast-moving founders and small businesses are leaving bloated legacy suites behind.