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 | Turso |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Full backend platform | Database only |
| Pricing | $25/mo | $29/mo |
| Distribution | Managed cloud | Global edge |
| Best For | TypeScript real-time apps | Edge-distributed reads |
| Real-time | Native reactive | Not built-in |
Convex
- Type
- Full backend platform
- Pricing
- $25/mo
- Distribution
- Managed cloud
- Best For
- TypeScript real-time apps
- Real-time
- Native reactive
Turso
- Type
- Database only
- Pricing
- $29/mo
- Distribution
- Global edge
- Best For
- Edge-distributed reads
- Real-time
- Not built-in
Winner by Category
Best for Completeness
ConvexFull backend with auth integration and functions
Best for Edge
TursoGlobal edge distribution for low-latency reads
Best for Dx
ConvexSuperior TypeScript developer experience
Our Recommendation
Choose Convex for a complete TypeScript backend. Pick Turso for edge-distributed databases with global low-latency reads.
“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 Turso
Need edge-distributed database access
Overview
Convex and Turso serve different needs. Convex is a complete backend platform with reactive queries, serverless functions, and file storage. Turso distributes libSQL databases to edge locations for minimal read latency. Convex gives you a full backend; Turso gives you an edge-distributed database.
Choosing
For new TypeScript applications needing a complete backend, Convex is the simpler path. For applications requiring globally distributed data with sub-50ms reads, Turso's edge architecture is designed for that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Convex distribute data globally?
Convex runs in a managed cloud region. It does not distribute data to the edge like Turso.
Does Turso have server functions?
No. Turso is database-only. You need a separate compute layer for serverless functions.
Which is easier to start with?
Convex for TypeScript projects. It provides a complete backend with minimal configuration.
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