Convex vs Appwrite: Reactive Backend vs Open-Source BaaS
Convex offers a reactive TypeScript backend with real-time queries. Appwrite is an open-source BaaS with self-hosting. Different architectures for different priorities.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Traditional BaaS | Reactive backend |
| Pricing | $15/mo cloud | $25/mo |
| Real-time | Via webhooks | Native reactive queries |
| Best For | Self-hosted backends | TypeScript real-time apps |
| Open Source | Yes | No |
appwrite
- Architecture
- Traditional BaaS
- Pricing
- $15/mo cloud
- Real-time
- Via webhooks
- Best For
- Self-hosted backends
- Open Source
- Yes
Convex
- Architecture
- Reactive backend
- Pricing
- $25/mo
- Real-time
- Native reactive queries
- Best For
- TypeScript real-time apps
- Open Source
- No
Winner by Category
Best for Realtime
ConvexNative reactive queries update automatically
Best for Self_hosting
appwriteEasy self-hosting via Docker
Best for Dx
ConvexSuperior TypeScript developer experience
Our Recommendation
Choose Convex for TypeScript apps with real-time needs. Pick Appwrite for self-hosted backends with open-source flexibility.
“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 real-time TypeScript applications
Choose Appwrite
Need self-hosted open-source backend
Overview
Convex and Appwrite are both backend platforms but with fundamentally different architectures. Convex provides a reactive database where queries automatically update when data changes, with end-to-end TypeScript type safety. Appwrite is a traditional BaaS providing REST/GraphQL APIs for auth, databases, storage, and functions, with the advantage of being fully open-source and self-hostable.
When to Choose Each
Choose Convex if you are building a new TypeScript application and want the best possible developer experience with automatic reactivity. Choose Appwrite if you need self-hosting, open-source code, or prefer traditional REST/GraphQL API patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Convex be self-hosted?
No. Convex is a managed service. If self-hosting is a requirement, Appwrite is the better choice.
Does Appwrite have real-time?
Appwrite supports real-time events via WebSocket subscriptions, but it is not as automatic as Convex's reactive queries.
Which is easier to start with?
Convex is faster to start for TypeScript projects. Appwrite requires more setup but offers more deployment flexibility.
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