Convex vs PlanetScale: Reactive Backend vs MySQL
Convex is a full reactive backend platform with TypeScript. PlanetScale is a serverless MySQL platform with branching. Convex is a complete solution; PlanetScale is a database.
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 | Convex | PlanetScale |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Full backend platform | Serverless MySQL |
| Pricing | $25/mo | $39/mo |
| Data Model | Document-relational | Relational (MySQL) |
| Best For | Real-time TypeScript apps | MySQL at scale |
| Branching | Not applicable | Git-like schema branching |
Convex
- Type
- Full backend platform
- Pricing
- $25/mo
- Data Model
- Document-relational
- Best For
- Real-time TypeScript apps
- Branching
- Not applicable
PlanetScale
- Type
- Serverless MySQL
- Pricing
- $39/mo
- Data Model
- Relational (MySQL)
- Best For
- MySQL at scale
- Branching
- Git-like schema branching
Winner by Category
Best for Completeness
ConvexFull backend vs database only
Best for Sql
PlanetScaleStandard MySQL compatible with existing tools
Best Value
ConvexLower starting price with more features included
Our Recommendation
Choose Convex for a complete TypeScript backend. Pick PlanetScale for production MySQL with schema branching and proven scale.
“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 queries
Choose PlanetScale
Need MySQL with branching for large-scale applications
Overview
Convex and PlanetScale serve different needs. Convex is a complete backend platform with a reactive database, serverless functions, and file storage. PlanetScale is a serverless MySQL platform focused on providing reliable, scalable MySQL with git-like schema branching. Choose based on whether you need a complete backend or a powerful database.
Scaling and Production
PlanetScale has a strong track record at scale, handling massive MySQL workloads with its Vitess-based infrastructure. Convex is newer but growing quickly, with solid performance for real-time applications. For extremely high-throughput relational workloads, PlanetScale's MySQL expertise is proven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use MySQL with Convex?
No. Convex uses its own document-relational database with TypeScript queries. It is not SQL-based.
Does PlanetScale have serverless functions?
No. PlanetScale is a database only. You need a separate compute layer for serverless functions.
Which is better for startups?
Convex offers more value for startups because it is a complete backend. PlanetScale is better when you specifically need MySQL.
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