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 | Convex | Neon |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Full backend platform | Serverless PostgreSQL |
| Pricing | $25/mo | $19/mo |
| Real-time | Built-in reactive queries | Not built-in |
| Best For | Real-time TypeScript apps | PostgreSQL with serverless |
| Querying | TypeScript functions | Standard SQL |
Convex
- Type
- Full backend platform
- Pricing
- $25/mo
- Real-time
- Built-in reactive queries
- Best For
- Real-time TypeScript apps
- Querying
- TypeScript functions
Neon
- Type
- Serverless PostgreSQL
- Pricing
- $19/mo
- Real-time
- Not built-in
- Best For
- PostgreSQL with serverless
- Querying
- Standard SQL
Winner by Category
Best for Completeness
ConvexFull backend with auth, storage, and functions included
Best for Flexibility
NeonStandard PostgreSQL works with any stack
Best for Realtime
ConvexNative reactive queries vs manual implementation
Our Recommendation
Choose Convex for a complete reactive backend in TypeScript. Pick Neon if you want serverless PostgreSQL that works with your existing stack.
“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
Want a complete backend with real-time built in
Choose Neon
Need PostgreSQL with serverless scaling and branching
Overview
Convex and Neon solve different problems. Convex is a complete backend platform with a reactive database, serverless functions, file storage, and scheduling, all with TypeScript-first development. Neon is a serverless PostgreSQL provider that gives you a database with branching, autoscaling, and a generous free tier. You use Neon with your own backend framework; Convex is the backend framework.
When to Choose Each
If you want a complete backend solution with minimal setup and great TypeScript integration, Convex is the faster path. If you need PostgreSQL specifically, want to use an ORM like Prisma or Drizzle, or need compatibility with existing PostgreSQL tools, Neon is the right choice. Many developers choose Neon when they need a database for an existing architecture and Convex when starting a new project from scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use SQL with Convex?
No. Convex uses TypeScript functions for queries, not SQL. If you need SQL, choose Neon or another PostgreSQL provider.
Does Neon have real-time features?
Neon provides PostgreSQL, which supports LISTEN/NOTIFY for basic pub/sub. Convex has native reactive queries that are much easier to use.
Which has a better free tier?
Neon's free tier is generous with up to 0.5 GB storage and a compute endpoint. Convex's free tier includes 1M function calls and 1GB storage.
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