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Convex vs Supabase: Backend-as-a-Service Comparison

Compare Convex vs Supabase for app backends. Real-time, database, serverless functions, and DX.

Reviewed by Michael Kerkhoff, as of

Definition
Convex is a reactive backend platform with real-time sync, serverless functions, and a document database. Supabase is an open-source Firebase alternative built on PostgreSQL with auth, storage, and edge functions.
Category
Technology
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ConvexSupabase

Detailed Comparison

A side-by-side analysis of key factors to help you make the right choice.

Convex vs Supabase
FactorConvexSupabase
Real-Time SyncBuilt-in reactive queries, automatic UI updates WinnerReal-time subscriptions via PostgreSQL LISTEN/NOTIFY
DatabaseDocument database with TypeScript-first schemaFull PostgreSQL with SQL, joins, extensions Winner
Developer ExperienceEnd-to-end TypeScript, zero-config, type-safe queries WinnerGood DX but requires SQL knowledge, more config
Open Source & Self-HostProprietary, cloud-onlyFully open source, self-hostable Winner
Serverless FunctionsIntegrated mutations/actions with ACID transactions WinnerEdge Functions (Deno) with separate deployment
Total Score · 0 ties3 / 52 / 5

Key Statistics

Real data from verified industry sources to support your decision.

GitHub stars for the Convex backend repository — GitHub API (2026)
11.3K+
GitHub stars for the Supabase repository — GitHub API (2026)
101K+
Concurrent sessions included on Convex Professional — Convex pricing (2026)
10,000

All statistics come from verified third-party sources. Source, year, and direct link are shown on each metric.

When to Choose Each Option

Clear guidance based on your specific situation and needs.

Our Recommendation

Convex excels in real-time reactive apps with its integrated approach. Supabase is better for SQL-centric apps needing PostgreSQL's power and open-source flexibility. Convex for DX-first real-time apps; Supabase for data-heavy PostgreSQL workloads.

Choose Convex when...
  • Building real-time reactive applications.
  • Need an integrated development approach.
  • Prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Choose Supabase when...
  • Focusing on SQL-centric applications.
  • Need PostgreSQL's capabilities.
  • Prioritize open-source solutions.

Common questions about this comparison answered.

Frequently Asked Questions

(01)Which has better DX (Developer Experience)?
Convex wins for TypeScript projects with its end-to-end typing. Supabase wins for teams familiar with SQL and relational modeling.
(02)Can I use both?
Technically yes, but not recommended. Choose based on your primary needs - real-time first (Convex) or SQL/relational first (Supabase).
(03)Which is Context Studios' preference?
We use Convex for most new projects due to superior TypeScript DX and automatic real-time. We use Supabase when clients need SQL or have existing Postgres data.

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