Choosing the right Backend-as-a-Service (BaaS) can make or break a modern SaaS application. For startups building with Next.js, the stakes are even higher. You need a solution that handles real-time data seamlessly, integrates advanced features like authentication and file storage, and supports rapid iteration without compromising scalability.
Supabase and Convex are two standout options among the many BaaS platforms available today. Both platforms help accelerate development, offering practical tools like browser-based UIs and solid TypeScript and JavaScript integrations.
They even cater to AI-driven applications, making them ideal for forward-thinking teams building innovative, data-heavy SaaS products.
Supabase focuses on SQL-powered functionality through PostgreSQL, while Convex uses a document-oriented model with automatic type inference. Each approach offers distinct advantages, and choosing between them depends on your team's preferred development style and long-term scalability goals.
When comparing Supabase and Convex, their architectural differences show two distinct paradigms suited to different development approaches.
Supabase is built on PostgreSQL, utilizing a SQL-based structure that offers strong features like schemas, triggers, and built-in authentication. This makes it ideal for developers accustomed to relational databases. However, while Supabase supports real-time updates, these require explicit configuration through its Realtime server.
For local development, Supabase excels, providing a Docker-based setup that allows developers to self-host and work offline. This flexibility is a win for teams needing tight control over their infrastructure.
Convex takes a function-centric approach. All data interactions are mediated through serverless functions written in TypeScript, making it a natural fit for teams already leveraging modern JavaScript frameworks. Convex's real-time synchronization is automatic; no middleware or manual setup required.
Its cloud-native workflow eliminates the need for local database management, favoring live environments that integrate seamlessly into the development lifecycle. This simplifies scaling and iteration, though it may feel limiting to those who prefer working offline.
Authentication options differ: Supabase offers a built-in solution with email and social logins baked in. Convex integrates with external providers, allowing for more customization.
Supabase provides built-in file storage capabilities, and Convex takes a focused approach on data and functions. Supabase leans heavily on SQL's power, and Convex prioritizes simplicity and developer speed, making each a compelling choice depending on your project's requirements.
When it comes to developer experience, the choice between Supabase and Convex often boils down to how you prefer to work and what your project demands. Each platform offers distinct workflows that cater to different development paradigms.
Supabase offers flexibility rooted in its open-source foundation. Built on PostgreSQL, it provides strong SQL support and seamless integration with relational databases. Developers can query data directly using Supabase’s JavaScript SDK, eliminating the need to write extensive backend endpoints.
Features like Row-Level Security (RLS) allow fine-grained control over user access and require custom SQL configurations. Supabase’s support for ACID-compliant transactions ensures data consistency through both SQL transaction blocks and client methods. For serverless functions, Supabase provides edge functions powered by Deno, which may require additional learning if you’re accustomed to Node.js environments.
Convex takes a TypeScript-first approach. Its workflow emphasizes abstraction, using serverless functions for all database interactions. This shields frontend developers from database schema details, allowing them to focus on higher-level business logic.
Convex’s automatic type inference and real-time capabilities are standout features, ensuring seamless synchronization without manual configuration. Its React-friendly design further enhances productivity by reducing boilerplate code and enabling fast iteration cycles. Convex delivers a streamlined experience for TypeScript and React developers, making it easy to hit the ground running with minimal setup.
Convex’s application-layer authorization is written entirely in TypeScript, which offers flexibility and clarity for development teams.
The learning curve also differs. Supabase appeals to those experienced with SQL and requires more effort to configure real-time updates and manage database details.
Convex, meanwhile, delivers a streamlined experience for TypeScript and React developers, making it easier to hit the ground running with minimal setup.
For tech-savvy startups, the decision often comes down to whether Supabase’s SQL power and local hosting options fit your needs, or if Convex’s simplicity, speed, and modern development focus align better with your workflow.
Choosing between Supabase and Convex ultimately depends on your team's expertise, project needs, and development style.
If SQL familiarity, local development flexibility, and self-hosting options are priorities, Supabase shines as a reliable solution. It's particularly well-suited for projects requiring advanced database control, custom SQL migrations, and fine-grained access management.
Convex excels for teams focused on rapid iteration and modern workflows. With its TypeScript-first approach, automatic real-time synchronization, and seamless integration with React, Convex minimizes boilerplate and maximizes developer speed.
Its abstraction-oriented architecture is perfect for startups that value scalability and streamlined development over database complexity.
When evaluating costs, ecosystem maturity, and potential vendor lock-in, both platforms offer compelling strengths, but their trade-offs are clear. Supabase appeals to developers who need full infrastructure control, Convex delivers unmatched simplicity and a future-proof foundation for building scalable SaaS products.
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