Appwrite vs Convex: Open-Source BaaS vs Reactive Backend
Appwrite is open-source with easy self-hosting. Convex offers reactive TypeScript development. Different philosophies for backend development.
Last updated: 2026-03
In This Comparison
300%+ average ROI from custom software within three years of deployment
Source: Forrester 2024
3-10x faster development speed when using AI coding assistants
Source: McKinsey 2025
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | appwrite | Convex |
|---|---|---|
| Open Source | Yes | No |
| Pricing | $15/mo cloud | $25/mo |
| Real-time | WebSocket events | Native reactive queries |
| Best For | Self-hosted backends | TypeScript real-time apps |
| Self-Hosting | Docker-based | Not available |
appwrite
- Open Source
- Yes
- Pricing
- $15/mo cloud
- Real-time
- WebSocket events
- Best For
- Self-hosted backends
- Self-Hosting
- Docker-based
Convex
- Open Source
- No
- Pricing
- $25/mo
- Real-time
- Native reactive queries
- Best For
- TypeScript real-time apps
- Self-Hosting
- Not available
Winner by Category
Best for Self_hosting
appwriteOpen-source with easy Docker self-hosting
Best for Dx
ConvexSuperior TypeScript developer experience
Best for Realtime
ConvexAutomatic reactive queries are more elegant
Our Recommendation
Choose Appwrite for self-hosted open-source backends. Pick Convex for TypeScript apps with reactive real-time data.
“The best tool depends on what you are building and how you work. There is no universal winner. Pick the one that fits your workflow and budget, then ship something.”
When to Choose Each Tool
Choose Convex
Building TypeScript apps with real-time needs
Choose Appwrite
Need self-hosted open-source backend
Overview
Appwrite and Convex represent different backend philosophies. Appwrite is a traditional BaaS with REST/GraphQL APIs, open-source code, and Docker-based self-hosting. Convex is a reactive backend where TypeScript queries automatically update when data changes, providing end-to-end type safety but only as a managed service.
Choosing
If self-hosting and open-source matter, Appwrite is the clear choice. If developer experience and reactive data are priorities, Convex delivers a more modern development workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Convex be self-hosted?
No. Convex is managed-only. Appwrite is the better choice if self-hosting is required.
Which is easier to start with?
Convex for TypeScript projects is very quick to set up. Appwrite requires Docker for self-hosting or signing up for cloud.
Does Appwrite have type safety?
Appwrite has TypeScript SDKs but not the end-to-end type safety from database to frontend that Convex provides.
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