Head-to-Head Comparison

Convex vs Xata: Reactive Backend vs Data Platform

Convex offers reactive TypeScript queries. Xata adds search and visual editing on PostgreSQL. Both are modern data platforms with different strengths.

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

Convex

Data Model
Document-relational
Pricing
$25/mo
Search
Not built-in
Best For
TypeScript real-time apps
Real-time
Native reactive

Xata

Data Model
PostgreSQL-based
Pricing
$20/mo
Search
Built-in full-text + vector
Best For
Data-rich applications
Real-time
Not built-in

Winner by Category

Best for Realtime

Convex

Automatic reactive queries

Best for Search

Xata

Built-in full-text and vector search

Best for Dx

Convex

End-to-end TypeScript type safety

Our Recommendation

Choose Convex for reactive TypeScript applications. Pick Xata for data-rich apps needing built-in search.

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.

Callum Holt - Founder, 13Labs

When to Choose Each Tool

1

Choose Convex

Building TypeScript apps with reactive data

2

Choose Xata

Need built-in search and visual data management

Overview

Convex and Xata are both modern data platforms. Convex provides a reactive document-relational database with TypeScript functions and automatic query updates. Xata builds on PostgreSQL with added full-text search, vector search, and a visual data management interface. Convex excels at real-time; Xata excels at search.

Choosing

If your application needs reactive real-time data with TypeScript, Convex provides the best DX. If your application needs search capabilities or you want PostgreSQL with added data management features, Xata is the better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Convex have search?

Convex supports text filtering but not full-text or vector search. Xata has both built in.

Can I use SQL with Convex?

No. Convex uses TypeScript functions. Xata is PostgreSQL-based and supports SQL.

Which has better visual tools?

Xata's spreadsheet-like data management UI is more visual. Convex's dashboard is functional but less visual.

Master Both Tools at buildDay Melbourne

Join our hands-on workshop and learn to build with the modern AI development stack. Go from idea to deployed app in a single day.