Supabase vs Appwrite
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool in 2026
π Quick Verdict
Winner: Supabase
Supabase is the better choice for most web applications due to PostgreSQL's power, better real-time features, and a larger ecosystem. Appwrite excels for mobile-first apps and teams that prefer document databases with multi-runtime functions.
π Explore More
π Visual Comparison
Overall Score Comparison
Category Breakdown
Supabase Highlights
- β Open source
- β Postgres database
- π° Free / $25/month (Pro)
Appwrite Highlights
- β Fully open-source with strong community
- β Supports multiple database types
- π° Free / $15/month (Pro)
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Supabase | Appwrite |
|---|---|---|
| Database | PostgreSQL | Document-based (MariaDB under hood) |
| Authentication | Built-in (social, email, phone) | Built-in (30+ methods) |
| Real-time | Subscriptions via WebSocket | Subscriptions via WebSocket |
| Storage | S3-compatible object storage | Built-in file storage |
| Edge Functions | Deno-based | Cloud Functions (multiple runtimes) |
| Row-level Security | β | Document-level permissions |
| REST API | Auto-generated (PostgREST) | Auto-generated |
| GraphQL | Via pg_graphql | Via extension |
| Vector/AI | pgvector built-in | β |
| Self-hosting | β | β |
| Dashboard | Web-based SQL editor | Web-based console |
| SDKs | JavaScript, Python, Dart, Swift, Kotlin | Web, Flutter, Apple, Android, + server SDKs |
What is Supabase?
Supabase is an open-source Firebase alternative. It provides a Postgres database, authentication, instant APIs, real-time subscriptions, and storage for building modern applications.
β Pros
- β’Open source
- β’Postgres database
- β’Real-time subscriptions
- β’Built-in auth
- β’Great free tier
βCons
- β’Newer platform
- β’Smaller ecosystem
- β’Limited edge functions
- β’Learning curve for Postgres
What is Appwrite?
Appwrite is an open-source backend-as-a-service platform providing authentication, databases, storage, functions, and messaging. It's self-hostable and designed for a wide range of application types.
β Pros
- β’Fully open-source with strong community
- β’Supports multiple database types
- β’Built-in messaging (email, SMS, push)
- β’Functions support multiple runtimes (Node, Python, etc.)
- β’Easy self-hosting with Docker
- β’SDKs for 10+ platforms
βCons
- β’Document database (no full SQL power)
- β’Smaller community than Supabase
- β’Real-time features less mature
- β’Cloud hosting is newer
- β’No native vector/AI database features
Pricing Comparison
πIn-Depth Analysis: Supabase vs Appwrite
Choosing between Supabase and Appwrite can be challenging, as both tools offer compelling features for modern workflows. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll analyze every aspectβfrom features and pricing to real-world use casesβto help you make an informed decision.
Supabase
Supabase is an open-source Firebase alternative. It provides a Postgres database, authentication, instant APIs, real-time subscriptions, and storage for building modern applications.
Appwrite
Appwrite is an open-source backend-as-a-service platform providing authentication, databases, storage, functions, and messaging. It's self-hostable and designed for a wide range of application types.
π―Best Use Cases
When to Choose Supabase
- βFor Teams:
Open source
- βFor Small Business:
Postgres database
- βFor Enterprise:
Real-time subscriptions
When to Choose Appwrite
- βFor Individuals:
Fully open-source with strong community
- βFor Small Business:
Supports multiple database types
- βFor Teams:
Built-in messaging (email, SMS, push)
πFeature Deep Dive
Database
Authentication
Real-time
Storage
Edge Functions
Row-level Security
π°Pricing Analysis
Supabase
Freemium
β Free tier availableAppwrite
Freemium
β Free tier availableπ‘ Pro Tip
Both tools offer free trials or tiers. We recommend testing both with your actual workflow before committing to a paid plan.
πOur Recommendation
After extensive analysis and testing, here's our take: Both Supabase and Appwrite are excellent tools that can significantly improve your productivity. The best choice depends on your specific needs, workflow, and priorities.
Choose Supabase if:
You want PostgreSQL's power, need pgvector for AI features, or are building data-intensive web applications.
Choose Appwrite if:
You're building mobile apps (especially Flutter), need built-in messaging, or prefer document-based data modeling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Appwrite is easier to self-host with a single Docker command. Supabase self-hosting involves multiple services (Postgres, GoTrue, PostgREST, etc.) and is more complex to configure.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
β¨ Choose Supabase if
You want PostgreSQL's power, need pgvector for AI features, or are building data-intensive web applications.
β¨ Choose Appwrite if
You're building mobile apps (especially Flutter), need built-in messaging, or prefer document-based data modeling.